What Is a Standalone Application?
A standalone application, also known as a desktop application is a software program designed in such a way that to run this software program, users don’t need an internet connection or any server access. Web-based applications need an internet connection, servers, and any additional resources to run but standalone applications do not require any additional resources such as an internet connection, server, etc.
Where Can a Standalone Application Be Used?
A standalone application is used when a user wants to perform any specific task on a local machine, without the requirement of an internet connection to the system. Desktop software, Mobile apps, Gaming Applications, Industrial control systems Medical Devices, etc. are some examples where standalone applications are developed frequently.
Features:
- Offline functionality: If the user uses standalone applications then do not require an internet connection to run it, which makes them ideal for users who may not have a stable internet connection.
- Better performance: Standalone applications directly run on the user’s device without the need for an internet connection, and because of that standalone application provides faster performance and a better user experience.
- Greater control: Standalone applications do not depend on outside servers to store their data, so users have more control over their data when using the standalone applications.
- Simple distribution: These applications can easily make available to a large number of users using the app store or any other platforms
- Cost-effectiveness: Standalone applications run on the local machines of users and do not require any server to store the data. So these types of applications are less expensive and easy to design and operate.
What Is the Future of Standalone Applications?
- As mobile devices become more powerful and obvious to use, independent apps made for mobile platforms are anticipated to grow more popular.
- Integration of stand-alone applications with cloud-based services is becoming more common, and because of it. it enables users to store and access data from any location.
- The emergence of new technologies, such as augmented reality and virtual reality, may open up new possibilities for standalone apps that make use of these technologies.
In conclusion, standalone applications are a type of software program that is designed to run on a single computer or local machine of the user, without the need for a server or internet connection. This application provides a number of benefits, such as offline capabilities and greater customization.
Standalone Application vs Client-Server Application:
|
Standalone Application |
Client-Server Application |
| The standalone application is also known as a desktop application. | Client-Server application is also known as network applications, distributed applications |
| To run the standalone application, a network or internet connection is not required. | To run the Client-Server application, a network or internet connection is required. |
| The standalone user’s applications can run on a single local machine. | The client-Server application can run on any machine which has an internet connection. |
| A single user can use Standalone Application tools and features | Multiple users/clients can use Client-Server Applications. |
| Standalone applications may be preferred for their simplicity, ease of use, and offline functionality | Efficient in scalability, flexibility, and ability to provide shared resources to multiple clients. |