Web applications have entered the list of essential elements of the Internet facilitating easy access to services and tools within web browsers. Generally, these applications are implemented on web servers are easy to access, and provide simplified interfaces.

On the other hand, cloud applications are the extension of web applications where they take advantage of the availability of almost unlimited resources in cloud computing. They contain additional features and, in general, support more operational and user requirements.

Currently, due to the continuing development of technology, both web and cloud applications provide various characteristics and opportunities. This blog is dedicated to the comparison of these two application models, placing an emphasis on issues like back-end structure, possibility to scale, and general architecture.

What are Web & Cloud Applications?

Web applications are specifically created to operate in the web browser – JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and sometimes backend languages such as Java, PHP, and Python.

These applications can be easily distinguished from traditional applications as they do not need to be downloaded on a user’s device; rather a URL can be used to open the application and it is run through the web browser. 

Cloud applications are even closer to the concept of web-based applications, or rather, their further development. Although they also work on browsers, they can be implemented in mobile and desktop applications that interface with cloud services.

Ultimately, while both apps rely on internet access, cloud-based apps provide greater flexibility, scalability, and robustness, suitable for more complex tasks like enterprise resource planning or large-scale data processing.

Web-based apps are often more straightforward and suitable for basic functions that require less computational power and infrastructure.

Types of Web Applications

Most organizations incorporate different sorts of web applications because of their numerous benefits, characteristics, and services. Here are eight of the most popular types:

Type 1: Static Web Apps 

Static web apps made out of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript deliver content to the users and do not make changes on the server side.

Benefits:

• Very fast load time 
• Highly secure 
• Less complex to build 

Usage: Book publishing sectors 

Type 2: Dynamic Web Apps

These are applications that present present-time information depending on the interactions with servers and requests by users. They can be simple websites having more than one web page or one-page applications, built using technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, PHP, Ruby, etc working both on the client side and server side. 

Benefits:

•  Wider audience reach 
•  Scalable as compared to the static web applications 
•  Flexible for content updates 

Usage: The results of its poll reveal that social media, health care, Information Technology, Supply Chain and Logistics management, retail, and electronic commerce. 

Type 3: Single Page Apps (SPA)

Single Page Application (SPA) functions solely in the browser, or client-side, without the need for page refreshing, and operates all the data in a single HTML page. Some examples of SILO websites are Gmail, Netflix, Pinterest, and PayPal. 

Benefits:

•  Enhanced user experience 
•  Minimized server load 
•  Improved app performance 

Usage: E-mail service providers, Communication Sectors 

Type 4: Multi-Page Apps (MPA)

An MPA is made up of more than one web page which is developed independently although is linked to make a website. They are perfect for SEO and allow you to navigate through the website within a few seconds. 

Benefits:

•  Ideal for SEO 
•  Fast direct backward or forward in the browser. 
•  Simple to develop 

Usage: These are the e-commerce sectors, and enterprise industries that require huge capital for investment in manufacturing. 

Type 5: Animated Web Apps

These apps enable the synchronization and the animations on the web platform depending on the Javascript, HTML5, flash, and CSS. They are commonly used by freelancers as well as creative enterprises. 

 Benefits:

•  Improved user engagement 
•  Enhanced navigation 
•  Excellent branding 

 Usage: animation, education, and the gaming sector 

Type 6: Web Apps with Content Management Systems (CMS)

The web applications developed using the CMS provide functions for regularly changing the website content and easy content management. WordPress is a good example, it is a Content management system and it has developed into a great software that powers as much as 30% of the whole internet. 

 Benefits

•  Fast creation and updating of the content 
•  Efficient updates 

Usage: As a web-based community, it encompasses blogging platforms, sales and marketing platforms, and news portals. 

Type 7: E-commerce Web Apps

These are the more complex dynamic web applications involving the purchasing and sales of goods via the Internet with built-in transactions and payment systems. 

 Benefits:

•  Scale business quickly 
•  Provides tracking and analysis for customer’s patronization and behavior. 
•  Sell goods globally 

 Usage: E-commerce sectors

Type 8: Progressive Web Apps (PWA)

PWAs are cross-platform web apps built with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, offering a seamless experience even with poor internet connectivity.

Benefits:

• Fast loading time
• No installation required
• Quick response to user interactions
• Enhanced cross-platform conversion

Usage: On-demand services, healthcare, retail and e-commerce, logistics, social media, IT sectors

Also Read: Exploring the Phases of the Software Testing Life Cycle

How Do Web Applications Work?

Web applications primarily reside on web servers and are executed over the Internet. They are designed with a client-server architecture, which involves two main components: between the server side and the client side.

Here’s how they work: 

Server Side (Back-end) 

Traditionally the server side of a web application is the portion of the application that deals with matters relating to the server as a software entity including but not limited to database operations, business logic, and more. All these tasks are on the server side of the web application, and their proper functioning is the responsibility of the server-side code. 

• Database Interactions: It is here that the data retrieval and storage with the help of database operations occur on the server side. This interaction is critical for dynamic content and user-specific information. 
• Business Logic: Business rules and logic of the application are executed on the server side and the user interface is coded by the client side. These include user-input processing, generating and using mathematical authentication tokens, and more. 
• Processing Requests: Whenever a user makes a request (for instance by following a hyperlink or submitting a form), the server responds to such a request and then processes that request, and a response is then sent. This response can be in a format like HTML formatted JSON data or any other form of data. 

Client Side (Front-end) 

Client-side in reference to a web application refers to the part of the code that will be interpreted by the client or the user’s web browser. This particular code is used to closely interface with the user, that is, to display the graphical user interface and manage the user’s inputs. 

• Rendering: About programming, when a user opens a web application, the browser takes HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files, and shows them. It includes the activity of presenting textual content, graphics, ActiveX buttons, and all other graphical objects. 
• User Interaction: End-user scripts, normally in JS, deal with functionalities such as submission of forms, click on buttons among other functions, or changes in portions of an HTML page. This script improves the usability by offering feedback as well as other things, which are in the following points. 
• Data Fetching: As for the client-side code, there are ways to download data from a server asynchronously for an ‘X’ amount of time, such as AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML). This makes it possible for the web application to refresh/reload every part of the page instead of the entire page. 

How Does It Work Together?

User Request: A user accesses a web application by entering a URL in the browser or clicking a link.

Client Request: The browser sends an HTTP request to the web server hosting the application.

Server Processing: The web server receives the request and processes it using the server-side code. This may involve querying the database, processing business logic, and preparing the response.

Server Response: The server sends the response back to the browser. This response contains the HTML, CSS, and JavaScript needed to display the page.

Client Rendering: The browser receives the response and renders the page. Client-side scripts enhance the functionality and interactivity of the page.

User Interaction: The user interacts with the web application. Client-side scripts handle these interactions and may send additional requests to the server as needed.

Data Exchange: If further data is needed (e.g., form submission or dynamic content update), the client-side code sends asynchronous requests to the server, and the server processes these requests and sends back the required data.

This continuous interaction between the client-side and server-side components enables web applications to provide a seamless and responsive user experience.

Benefits of Web Applications

Web applications offer numerous advantages for businesses, enabling efficient interaction with customers and streamlined operations. Here are the key benefits:

Accessibility

• High Accessibility: Web apps can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets.
• User-Friendly Interface: They are typically designed with intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, providing a seamless customer experience.

Cross-Platform Compatibility

• Platform Independence: Web apps can run on diverse operating systems like macOS, Windows, and Linux.
• Browser Compatibility: They work across different browsers, including Chrome, Safari, and Firefox, making them more accessible to a wide range of users.

Deployability

• Easy Updates: New features and updates can be deployed centrally, ensuring all users have access to the latest version without manual updates.
• Cost-Effective Maintenance: This centralized management minimizes maintenance costs and improves the user experience.

Cost-Effectiveness

• Reduced Development Effort: Web apps require less development effort compared to traditional desktop apps.
• Lower Distribution and Maintenance Costs: Users do not need to install or update software locally, reducing associated costs.

Better Cross-Browser Compatibility

Seamless Operation: Web applications are designed to work across various web browsers, reducing compatibility issues common with native applications.

Remote Access and Collaboration

• Enhanced Collaboration: Team members can work on the same app from different locations, fostering better teamwork and enabling remote work.
• Remote Work Facilitation: The ability to access web apps remotely supports flexible work arrangements.

Scalability

• Easy Scaling: Web apps can accommodate growing numbers of users and data volumes without significant changes.
• Cloud Hosting: Utilizing cloud hosting services provides the necessary infrastructure for high scalability with no upfront investment.

Benefits at a Glance

• Accessible: Easily accessed through any web browser.
• Cross-Platform: Runs on multiple platforms, enhancing compatibility.
• Reduced Compatibility Issues: Minimizes the risk of compatibility issues.
• Low Maintenance: Requires less maintenance and support.
• Improved Usability: Easier for customers to use.
• No Space Limitations: Eliminates hard drive space limitations.
• Simple Updates: Apps can be maintained and updated without reinstallation.
• Scalable and Flexible: Offers high scalability and flexibility.
• Cost-Effective Maintenance: Routine maintenance costs are minimized as data is stored on remote servers.

Web applications offer a robust solution for businesses looking to improve accessibility, reduce costs, enhance collaboration, and ensure scalability.

Types of Cloud Based Applications

Cloud-based applications are categorized into three major cloud computing models: Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS). Each model represents different parts of the cloud computing stack. Here’s a closer look at each type:

Type 1: SaaS (Software as a Service)

SaaS applications provide users with full-functioning software applications that are accessible over the Internet. These applications are designed for various user bases, including freelancers, large enterprises, and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

Key Features:

• Accessibility: Users can access software from any device with an internet connection.
• No Installation: No need to install software locally; everything runs on the cloud.
• Maintenance: The service provider handles maintenance, updates, and security.

Examples:

• HubSpot CRM
• Zluri
• Wrike
• Microsoft Office 365
• Sisense
• Wix

Usage: Freelance services, large enterprises, SMBs.

Type 2: PaaS (Platform as a Service)

PaaS provides the infrastructure, computing platforms, and solutions required to build applications. This model is ideal for businesses involved in the development, testing, and deployment of cloud solutions.

Key Features:

• Development Environment: Includes runtime system libraries, operating systems, and graphical user interfaces.
• Collaboration: Facilitates collaboration among development teams.
• Scalability: Easily scalable to accommodate growing needs.

Examples:

• Google App Engine
• Microsoft Azure
• Rackspace Cloud Sites

Usage: Collaboration, testing, and development of cloud solutions.

Type 3: IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service)

IaaS offers the basic building blocks for cloud services, including access to networking functionalities, data storage, and computing power. Users can outsource IT infrastructure such as servers, virtual machines, storage, and networking.

Key Features:

• Flexibility: Provides a high level of control and flexibility over IT resources.
• Scalability: Can easily scale resources up or down based on demand.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Reduces the need for physical hardware investments.

Examples:

• Amazon WorkSpaces
• IBM Cloud
• Google Cloud

Usage: Outsourcing IT infrastructures, including servers, processing, storage, and networking.

Also Read: Wireframing for Building Inclusive Websites and Apps

How Do Cloud Apps Work?

Cloud applications are software systems hosted on remote servers, utilizing cloud computing infrastructure to provide various features and functionalities. They leverage different cloud service models to deliver a seamless experience to users. Here’s how cloud apps typically work:

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)

• In the IaaS model, cloud applications rely on infrastructure provided by cloud service providers, which includes storage, virtual servers, networking resources, and more.
• Users can manage and access these resources over the Internet, allowing for flexible and scalable computing capabilities without the need to invest in physical hardware.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

• SaaS is a widely adopted model where the cloud application is hosted on the internet, and users can access it through a web browser.
• SaaS applications are fully managed by the service provider, meaning users do not need to install or maintain the software locally. This model simplifies usage, provides regular updates, and ensures accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection.

Platform as a Service (PaaS)

• PaaS offers a cloud platform that includes development frameworks, tools, and runtime environments, enabling developers to create, deploy, and manage applications efficiently.
• By providing these resources, PaaS reduces the complexities of infrastructure management, allowing developers to focus on coding and application development rather than worrying about underlying hardware or software setup.

These cloud service models enable organizations to choose the best approach for their needs, whether it’s leveraging robust infrastructure, accessing software without managing installations, or developing applications on a versatile platform.

Benefits of Cloud Applications

Cloud applications, which operate through cloud computing, offer numerous advantages that enhance productivity, accessibility, and security. They streamline business processes and facilitate effective collaboration.

Here are the key benefits of cloud-based applications:

Accessibility

Cloud applications provide global accessibility, allowing users to access them from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility supports remote work and ensures that employees can stay connected and productive, regardless of their location.

Cost Efficiency

Cloud applications typically operate on a pay-as-you-go or subscription model, eliminating the need for significant upfront investments in software and hardware. This cost-effective approach allows organizations to optimize their operational expenses and scale resources according to their needs.

Scalability

Cloud applications offer on-demand scalability, enabling businesses to quickly adjust resources, computing power, and storage based on changing requirements or user demand. This flexibility supports growth and helps manage varying workloads efficiently.

Automatic Updates

Cloud applications are automatically updated by the service provider, ensuring that users always have access to the latest features and security patches. This automatic updating process enhances performance and reduces the burden of manual maintenance and support.

Minimized IT Management Expenses

By outsourcing infrastructure maintenance, security, and updates to cloud service providers, organizations can free up their IT teams to focus on more strategic and complex tasks. This results in cost savings and increased efficiency.

Enhanced Security Measures

Cloud service providers invest heavily in security technologies, including access controls, encryption, regular security audits, and identity management. These measures often surpass the security capabilities of on-premises solutions, providing businesses with robust data protection.

Rapid Deployment

Cloud applications can be deployed quickly without the need for extensive hardware setup. This rapid deployment capability is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and organizations with dynamic needs, allowing them to respond swiftly to market changes or new opportunities.

These benefits make cloud applications an attractive option for businesses looking to improve their efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance their IT infrastructure.

Web Based vs. Cloud Based Apps – Key Differences

Web-based and cloud-based applications, while similar in some aspects, have distinct differences in terms of functionality, infrastructure, and user experience. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the two:

Internet Dependency

• Cloud Apps: Can work partially or entirely without internet connectivity. Some features might be available offline and sync with the cloud once connected.
• Web Apps: Require an active internet connection to function, as they rely on web servers to deliver content and services.

Security

• Cloud Apps: Offer advanced security measures, especially for handling sensitive and confidential information. They often use robust encryption and authentication protocols.
• Web Apps: Typically ensure security through server-side authentication and data validation, but may not offer the same level of security as cloud apps.

Technology

• Cloud Apps: Often use backend frameworks combined with JavaScript-based technologies like React, Angular, etc., for building scalable and interactive applications.
• Web Apps: Generally built using languages like PHP, Python, Ruby, and databases like MySQL, focusing on delivering content and functionality through a web browser.

Access

• Cloud Apps: Not dependent solely on web browsers; can be accessed through various platforms, including desktop and mobile apps, and often offer downloadable components.
• Web Apps: Primarily accessed via web browsers, requiring no additional installations.

Customization

• Cloud Apps: Offer extensive customization features, allowing users to tailor functionalities to their specific needs.
• Web Apps: Typically offer limited customization, focusing more on providing a consistent user experience across different devices and browsers.

Costs

• Cloud Apps: Generally more expensive to develop and maintain due to the infrastructure, security, and scaling capabilities.
• Web Apps: Often cheaper to develop, with lower initial and maintenance costs, as they rely on existing web technologies.

Types

• Cloud Apps: Include SaaS (Software as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a Service), IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), and RaaS (Recovery as a Service).
• Web Apps: These can be categorized into static, dynamic, portal web apps, etc.

Scalability

• Cloud Apps: Inherently scalable, able to handle increased loads by leveraging cloud infrastructure resources.
• Web Apps: Scalability is often limited by server capacity and design architecture.

Availability

• Cloud Apps: Typically offer high uptime and reliability, as they use distributed cloud infrastructure to ensure continuous availability.
• Web Apps: This may have more limited uptime, depending on server infrastructure and hosting solutions.

Storage

• Cloud Apps: Utilize multiple, often geographically dispersed, replicated data centers for storage, ensuring data redundancy and availability.
• Web Apps: Usually rely on a single data center or limited storage infrastructure, which can be a single point of failure.

These differences highlight the versatility and robustness of cloud applications, making them suitable for businesses requiring high security, scalability, and customization. Web applications, while more cost-effective, are ideal for simpler, browser-based solutions.

Also Read: The Stage Gate Process: Project Management Guide

Final Words

Web apps and cloud apps are in fact the touchpoints of users, though both are quite different from each other and possess their own advantages and attributes as well.

Despite the similarities in the structure of software, database management systems, and the way they store data, they are quite different and designed for different applications. Between the web app and cloud app, the decision should be made depending on the customers and their preferences as well as business and operational necessities. 

Be it you want to design a new web application or you are in need of Progressive Web App Development help; we are here to assist you. To know more about the best fitting solution, please, feel free to contact us right today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the difference between cloud apps and web apps?

Cloud apps can operate offline and use cloud computing infrastructure, while web apps require an internet connection and are accessed through web browsers.

Q2. Which is better, web-based or cloud-based?

The choice depends on your specific needs. Cloud-based apps offer scalability and offline capabilities, while web-based apps are simpler and cost-effective.

Q3. What is the advantage of cloud applications over web applications?

Cloud applications provide greater scalability and flexibility, allowing for resource expansion and offline functionality.