What is a browser-based application?

Key takeaways

Browser-based applications are apps that operate entirely within a web browser like Microsoft Edge, eliminating the need for downloads and installations, and offer consistent access across various devices.
Browser-based applications are hosted on remote servers, freeing up local hard drive space and allowing access from any device with internet connectivity.
These applications facilitate real-time collaboration for remote teams and provide easy access to tools like Microsoft 365 suite, enhancing productivity from anywhere.

What is a browser app? Browser-based applications only require a web browser, like Microsoft Edge, to be installed on your computer or smart device. Instead of having to download and install a program, you can access it in its entirety within your browser! Plus, if you need to access the app from a different computer or browser, the content and display should be identical, no matter what kind of device you’re using.

How do browser apps work?

Browser-based applications are stored on remote servers and accessed through a local Internet network. That means they don’t live (or take up space) on your hard drive, like computer-based applications do.

Since you don’t have to download anything to access these apps, you can use them anywhere, on any device. So, what type of app runs in a browser? A great example of a robust browser-based application is the Microsoft 365 suite for the web. While these productivity programs can be downloaded directly to your PC, they can also function as online, browser-based applications, allowing you to access them from any device and collaborate online in real time.

Other browser-based apps include games and calculators, as well as more intense applications like web-based e-mail and e-commerce shops. For example, if you’re using a browser to log into your Microsoft Outlook email account, you’ll notice that it looks the same no matter what device or browser you’re using to access it. That’s a browser-based application!

Why use browser-based applications?

A web-based application may be an attractive option for you if you regularly use more than one computer or device and/or you don’t want to take up space on your hard drive. Here are several benefits of browser-based applications:

Access the same version of an application across users and devices
No need to install an app
Accessible through mobile, desktop, and laptop platforms
Works on multiple platforms

Browser-based apps can also be incredibly useful for collaborative projects. If a group is working together remotely, using a browser-based application can allow them to collaborate in real time. Similarly, if you’ve saved your work online, you can access it from anywhere, which can be helpful if you need to give a presentation and your laptop isn’t working as it should. If you have an older computer, it may lack the necessary hardware to support certain programs and upgrades, but it should be able to load a browser-based app without issue.

Browser-based applications can be as simple as a calculator or as robust as a suite of productivity apps. They’re accessible, universal, and work beautifully across devices and browsers. To start enjoying browser-based apps, use them on Microsoft Edge today.