Clients use applications to perform tasks via the server or medium. Two such applications are client-server applications and web applications.
Key Takeaways
- Client-server applications require software installation on a user’s device; web applications are accessed through a web browser without installation.
- Client-server applications directly connect the client and server; web applications utilize the internet for communication.
- Client-server applications can function offline with local data; web applications require an active internet connection.
Client Server Application vs. Web Application
The difference between a client-server application and a web application is that the client-server application has two tier architecture, whereas the web application has multi tire architecture. In the client-server application, the security is more and fewer security breaches are expected to happen as there are fewer users; however, in the case of a web application, it s not that secure as it has too many users and is difficult to keep track of.
The server in the client-server application is mainly via an interface or application. It provides the required task assigned by the user through the nearest server.
A web application is an application that is capable of working directly from a suitable web browser. The web application can run on several platforms simultaneously and perform the entire task assigned by the client in a systematic format.
Comparison Table
| Parameter of Comparison | Client Server Application | Web Application |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | It is made up of two tire architecture | It is made up of multi tire architecture |
| Interaction | Interaction takes place via a user interface or application | Interaction takes place via a web browser |
| Operation | It requires pre-installation in the device | It can run directly on suitable web browse |
| Efficiency | May get overloaded by tasks decreasing the performance efficiency | Capable of working over multiple platforms at the same time with quick performance |
| Cookies | Cookies are not required | Cookies are needed |
| security | Less risk as there are fewer users | High risk comparatively as more users |
What is Client Server Application?
The client-server application is a form of computing. The client-server application is software available on the clients’ computer that generates requests to a remote server.
The server can connect with the client to ensure that the client has the necessary update or when the client requires anything. Once the server has done its job, it loses the connection with the client to save the bond with the space on the network.
Popular client-server applications are email, the world wide web, and network printing. In client-server applications, data can be accessed efficiently even with the client-server not being closed.
What is a Web Application?
The web application is also known as a web app. It is an application software that runs on a web server. The client accesses the web application via a web browser with an active internet connection to perform tasks.
The user requests a particular data or information to the web server over the internet; the web server then forwards the request to the required web application server.
The web application then performs the requested tasks and generates the result of the requested task, and serves the task results to the web server. The web server then communicates back with the client and displays the information.
All the clients have a similar version. Communication in a web application is accessible from anywhere.
Main Differences Between Client Server Applications and Web Applications
- The client-server application has a two-tire architecture, whereas the web application comprises a multi-tire application.
- The interaction between the client and server occurs via user interface or application, whereas for web applications, it happens via a web browser.
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/1578936/
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/6024628/
- https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/1578936/
Last Updated : 11 June, 2023
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
I see the point being made in the article, but I think the security risks of web applications might be overstated here. Web applications can be secure if developed properly and maintained regularly.
I agree with you, Gthomas. It’s all about proper development and maintenance.
I respectfully disagree. The security risks with web applications are indeed high, regardless of development and maintenance efforts.
The article was quite informative. I appreciate the detailed comparison between client-server applications and web applications. It helped me understand the differences better.
Absolutely, Kcooper. It’s always beneficial to have a clear understanding of these technological concepts.
This article had a touch of humor in it, especially with the comparisons. I found that quite interesting and engaging.
Indeed, Jayden40. Adding a touch of humor to a technical article is a refreshing change and keeps the readers interested.
The article is lacking in depth when comparing the efficiency of client-server applications and web applications. There could be more detailed analysis in this aspect.
This article provides a comprehensive explanation of client-server applications and web applications. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and it was very educational.
I couldn’t agree more, Bethany. The information is presented very clearly and is easy to understand.
The practical explanations of client-server applications and web applications were very helpful. It’s always beneficial to have real-world examples to understand complex concepts.
I’m not fully convinced about the practical examples. They are useful, but other methods might be more effective in understanding.
Absolutely, Ross Chapman. Practical examples really help in connecting theoretical knowledge to real-life scenarios.
The comparison table is very useful and makes the differences quite clear. It’s a great reference point for understanding the topic.
I agree, Rebecca73. The comparison table is insightful and makes it easy to grasp the distinctions.
The comparison table indeed raises some valid points, but it’s important to remember that all scenarios are not necessarily reflected in it.
The article could delve a bit more into the technical aspects and working mechanisms of both client-server applications and web applications. This would enhance the readers’ understanding of the topic.
I found the references provided at the end of the article very helpful. They give credibility to the information presented in the article.
I agree, Zstewart. The references add value to the article’s content and provide an avenue for further exploration.
The article effectively defines and explains both client-server applications and web applications. A great piece of knowledge for anyone interested in the subject.
Definitely, Turner Muhammad. The article is a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand these concepts.
It provides a solid foundation for learning about such applications, Turner Muhammad. The explanations are clear and concise.