website, web application, and app
The terms website, web application, and app are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct
differences based on their functionality, purpose, and how they are accessed and used.
1. Website
Definition: A website is a collection of publicly accessible, interlinked web pages that are
hosted under a single domain. It provides content or information that can be viewed by users
in a static or dynamic format.
Purpose: Primarily used to display information such as text, images, videos, articles, and
other multimedia content. Websites are usually informative and designed for users to
consume content.
Interactivity: Limited interactivity; the primary focus is on presenting information rather than
user engagement.
Examples:
o News websites (e.g., BBC, CNN)
o Blogs (e.g., WordPress blogs)
o Corporate websites (e.g., company profiles)
2. Web Application
Definition: A web application is a dynamic, interactive system that runs on a web browser
and allows users to perform various tasks and interact with data. It often requires user input
and responds to it by processing and generating results.
Purpose: Designed to enable user interaction with data or services, such as creating,
updating, or deleting information. Web applications provide more complex functionality than
websites, often resembling desktop or mobile apps.
Interactivity: High interactivity. Users can perform actions, such as filling out forms,
purchasing products, or interacting with databases.
Examples:
o Gmail, Outlook (email systems)
o Google Docs, Office 365 (document creation/editing)
o Online banking platforms
3. App (Application)
Definition: "App" is short for "application" and is commonly used to refer to a software
program that runs on a specific device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. It can be
either a mobile app (for mobile devices) or a desktop app (for computers).
Purpose: Apps are designed to perform specific tasks or functions. They are typically
installed on a device and can work offline (although many apps require an internet
connection for full functionality).
Types of Apps:
o Mobile Apps: Designed specifically for mobile devices, often available through app
stores (Google Play Store, Apple App Store).
o Desktop Apps: Installed on computers and laptops, providing functionality directly
on the system (e.g., Microsoft Word, Adobe Photoshop).
Interactivity: Highly interactive and often task-oriented. Apps are designed to perform
specific functions such as communication, gaming, productivity, etc.
Examples:
o WhatsApp (communication app)
o Instagram (social media app)
o Microsoft Word (productivity desktop app)
Key Differences:
Feature Website Web Application App
Task-oriented, user
Purpose Information sharing Task-specific functionality
interaction
Interactivity Low to medium High High
Accessed via web Installed on devices
Access Accessed via web browsers
browsers (mobile/desktop)
Installation No installation required No installation required Requires installation
Examples Blogs, company profiles Gmail, Trello WhatsApp, Microsoft Word
Offline Use No No Yes (for many apps)
In summary:
Websites are mostly static and content-driven.
Web applications are dynamic and interactive, allowing users to perform specific tasks
online.
Apps are standalone software programs designed for specific platforms and offer more
tailored, offline-capable functionality.
