What's the Difference Between a Website and a Web App? (Part 2)

What is a Web App?
A web app is a software application that runs directly in your web browser. Unlike traditional apps that you need to download and install, web apps are accessible through a URL. Think of interactive features on websites like shopping carts, product searches, contact forms, or even online banking. Web apps enable users to perform complex tasks directly in the browser, such as editing documents, sending messages, or making transactions.

Advantages of Web Apps:
• Accessibility: Usable on any device with a web browser, anytime, anywhere.
• Ease of use: No installation required, and updates are automatic.
• Development efficiency: Built to run on multiple platforms without creating separate versions.
• Scalability: Easily accommodates more users without additional infrastructure.

Examples of Web Apps:
• Collaboration Apps: Google Docs for collaborative document editing.
• E-commerce: Platforms like Amazon or eBay for online shopping.
• Email: Gmail, Yahoo Mail, and similar services accessed directly in a browser.
• Internet Banking: Web apps for transferring funds or checking balances.
• Online Tools: Tools like Canva, Figma, or Notion.
• Communication: Platforms like WhatsApp Web and others.

How Does a Web App Work?
A web app has two main components:
1. Client-side: The user interface displayed in the browser, including buttons, forms, or other interactive elements.
2. Server-side: The component that processes user requests, such as storing data or displaying lots of results.

When a user interacts with the app (e.g., clicking a button), the browser sends a request to the server. The server processes the request and sends a response back to the browser. For example, when you click "Buy" the server will record your order and update the inventory.

What's the Difference Between a Website and a Web App?
While websites are primarily provide information, web apps are designed for complex interactions like ordering a product, modifying a file, or even playing games. However, the distinction between websites and web apps is increasingly blurred, as many modern websites integrate web app features.

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Hi, I am Nantungga Putra, an enthusiastic newcomer to the world of programming and web development. I've been focusing on becoming a skilled Front-End Web Developer specializing in React by learning and implementing Website and Web App technologies.

Thanks you've read this far, "How do businesses (including government) ensure that their web apps remain accessible and scalable while also protecting sensitive user data? For the user, is the trade-off between convenience and potential security risks worth it?"

Share an opinion!

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That's a basic overview of web apps. In the next post, we'll dive deeper into the importance of websites and web apps in our modern lives. Stay tuned!