A website and a web application are two distinct yet related entities in the digital world. A website can be defined as a collection of interlinked web pages that can be accessed globally via a single domain name. The primary purpose of a website is to provide information and offer a variety of services to its visitors. Websites are designed and maintained by individuals, organizations, and businesses, and can range from simple brochure-style sites to complex e-commerce platforms.
On the other hand, a web application is a software program that can be accessed through a web browser. Unlike websites, web applications are designed to provide interactive experiences for their users. The front-end of a web application is typically built using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which are supported by all major browsers. The back-end, on the other hand, can use any programming stack, such as LAMP or MEAN. Web applications are cloud-hosted and highly scalable, making them ideal for businesses that need to access data and run applications from multiple locations.
While websites and web applications share some similarities, they are fundamentally different. Websites are typically used to provide information and offer services, while web applications are designed to provide interactive experiences and support the needs of businesses. When deciding between a website and a web application, it’s essential to consider your specific goals and needs, as well as the capabilities of each platform.