A web app, or web application, is a core concept in modern software. For freelancers, understanding and building them is a highly valuable skill and a common project type.
What is Web app?
A web app is a software application that runs entirely within your web browser. Unlike a static website, it is interactive and dynamic, allowing you to perform tasks. Common examples include email clients, project management tools, and online editors.
Why is this important?
For freelancers, web apps represent a major market. Clients frequently need custom solutions like customer portals, internal tools, or SaaS products. Having web app skills, either in development or design, opens up high-value project opportunities and recurring work.
How does it work?
You access a web app by visiting a URL. Your browser downloads the app's code and displays its interface. Your interactions are sent to a remote server, which processes the data and sends updates back to your browser in real-time.
Pros and cons
Key advantages include cross-platform access from any device, easier maintenance as updates are server-side, and no installation needed for users. Potential downsides are dependence on internet connectivity, performance limitations compared to native apps, and ongoing hosting costs.
Conclusion
Web apps are fundamental to today's digital services. For freelancers, they offer a clear path to building scalable solutions for clients. Mastering this area can significantly boost your service offerings and marketability.
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