A web application is a computer programme that works via the Internet using web technology and web browsers.
Overview
As a low-cost communications conduit, the Internet is utilised by millions of organisations. They are able to quickly and securely exchange information with their target market thanks to this. Effective engagement, however, is only achievable when the company is able to collect and store all the essential data and has the tools to process it and show the users the results.
In order to handle information storage and retrieval, web applications employ a combination of client-side scripts (JavaScript and HTML) and server-side scripts (PHP and ASP). Users can engage with the business through online forms and content management because of this.
Workings of a web application
Typically, web applications are created using a language that is supported by a web browser, like JavaScript or HTML, as these languages depend on the browser to make the programme executable. Some apps need server-side processing because they are dynamic. Others require no server processing because they are entirely static.
A web server is needed by the web application to handle client requests, an application server is needed to carry out the tasks asked, and occasionally a database is needed to store the data. Technology used in application servers includes ASP.NET, ASP, ColdFusion, PHP, and JSP.
Here is an example of a common web application flow:
Through a web browser or the application’s user interface, the user sends a request to the web server across the internet.
This request is forwarded by the web server to the relevant web application server.
The requested operation, such as querying the database or processing the data, is completed by the web application server, which subsequently produces the requested data’s results.
Results from the requested information or processed data are sent by the web application server to the web server.
The requested information is provided by the web server in response to the client, and the user’s display subsequently shows it.
A web application illustration
Online forms, shopping carts, word processors, spreadsheets, video and photo editors, file conversion, file scanning, and email clients like Gmail, Yahoo, and AOL are examples of web apps. Microsoft 365 and Google Apps are two common programmes.
Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides, online storage, and more are all included in Google Apps for Work. Online calendar and document sharing are some more features. This enables simultaneous access to the same version of a document by all team members.
Conclusion
The way businesses are operated has changed as a result of increased Internet usage by both corporations and individuals. Web applications have become widely used as a result of businesses switching from conventional models to cloud-based and grid models. Web apps enable companies to rationalise their processes, boost productivity, and cut expenses.
The functionality of these online applications, which include email clients, word processors, spreadsheets, and other tools, is equivalent to that of the desktop versions. They do, however, have the extra benefit of operating on several platforms, having a wider audience, and being simple to access from anywhere.