A web application is a software system that helps users perform specific tasks over the Internet.
In simple terms, websites let users see things and do things. Content management systems (CMS) display content for users to see or read. Web applications provide functions for users to do things.
In practice, the difference is often not so simple to spot. A CMS is itself a web application that allows users to do things. Some content can also include web applications that allow users to do things.
Web applications typically consist of three levels of program code, to
- give users access to the system over the Internet
- perform data processing functions
- store, retrieve and permanently change data in a database
Web applications have a one-to-one relationship with each user, usually requiring a user login.
Examples of websites that use web applications are retail sites with shopping carts, online auctions, and web-based human resources management systems.
