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Webware
Last Updated: October 6, 2011
Definition - What does Webware mean?
Webware is software that is accessed online and is operated via a users' browser with no need to download and install an executable. Webware is not specific to a single machine; users can access these applications regardless of the computer they are using.
Webware is also known as a Web application or online software.
Techopedia explains Webware
The main benefits of webware compared to conventional desktop software include:
- There is no need to install anything. Users usually do not have to alter or perform any system configuration.
- Given there is no installation, there is no need to uninstall anything because webware does not leave footprints like a conventional desktop application.
- Webware is centralized, so it can be accessed from any machine with an Internet connection.
- There are no updates or patches to install as with conventional desktop software.
- A substantial portion of the application's load is maintained on the Web application server instead of the user's PC.
- Webware offers cross-platform compatibility and can be accessed from any modern OS.
- Local administrator rights are not required.
- It is resistant to piracy.
Webware may be simultaneously accessed by multiple Internet users. Examples of Webware include social networking websites (such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn), travel websites, Google Calendar, Google Spreadsheets and educational software.
