Cloud Application

What is a Cloud Application?

A cloud application is a program where cloud-based and local component works together and relies on remote servers for processing logic which can be accessed through the web browser.

Cloud Application

A cloud application is simply an application that is stored, executed and run from the cloud. However, unlike web applications, it does use local resources, as well. Cloud applications are often available on multiple devices, allow the synching of data between different devices and the remote server hosting the application. Data may be stored remotely, or it may be stored locally depending on the app in question. However, in almost all instances, app logic is processed on the remote server, which reduces the load on local machines.

Why Do Cloud Applications Matter?

Once upon a time, all software was machine-dependent. You installed a program on your desktop, and it was constrained to that environment, even if there was an Internet connection present. Today, that is not the case. There are many different examples of cloud applications out there, but some of the most popular include Evernote, Dropbox, Netflix and Mozy just to name a handful.

A cloud application may store data on the local machine or on the remote server, but all logic and operations are carried out remotely. This reduces the load placed on the local machine’s processor, and frees resources for other needs.

There are quite a few benefits to be found with a cloud application. For instance, enterprises can develop these apps very quickly, and they can be deployed just as fast. They can be scaled up or down relatively easily, and they can also be modified to include additional functionality without a great deal of trouble. Customized cloud application design and development provides businesses with the means to create low-resource demand solutions to their most pressing needs, and then make those solutions available to their employees across pretty much any device, whether that’s an office-based PC, a personal laptop, a smartphone or a tablet.

What’s the Difference Between a Cloud Application and a Web Application?

A cloud application and a web application share many similarities. However, there are quite a few differences, as well. In many ways, cloud applications are more evolved versions of web applications. In essence, a web application is an app that is designed to run within a web browser. It cannot be accessed outside of a browser. A cloud app, on the other hand, can be operated without the need for a browser, and works more like a standalone software installation.

Both cloud applications and web applications share the ability to be accessed from anywhere, and from any device, as long as there is an Internet connection. However, cloud applications are more robust and capable, and can provide a more seamless experience for users accessing the app from different devices because the app is not device or browser dependent.

Cloud application design and development provides important benefits for businesses and organizations of all shapes and sizes. They can be created to suit any purpose, or answer any need, and they are flexible enough that they can be easily adapted as usage needs change.