Application, or application software, commonly refers to a computer program designed to help a user perform task(s) on a computer system. An application exists to facilitate a user’s interaction with a computer system, and is typically composed of a number of related programs, which together form a fully functioning application suite. Examples of applications include word processors, mobile phone applications, and operating systems. Applications can also be downloaded from a variety of sources, including the internet, and are often offered in a variety of forms, including mobile, desktop and web-based versions.
At their most basic, applications enable users to access data, store and manipulate it, and present information in an organized fashion. Different applications can involve input from several different users, while others are entirely automated. In traditional desktop computing, applications usually involve a graphical user interface (GUI) that provides a set of graphical elements that allows a user to easily interact with the application. Modern user interfaces are often based on GUIs that allow users to interact with an application at a variety of levels, from basic command-line operations to highly graphical, user-driven elements.
In addition to providing users access to data and the ability to store and manipulate it, many applications also offer content modules, in which data can also be presented in a more structured form. Content modules have become increasingly important in a variety of applications, as they allow users to access and present information according to their particular needs and interests.
Applications can be written in various programming languages, with the most popular languages being C, Java, JavaScript, and Python. Depending on the application and the language used, additional components, such as databases or graphics libraries, may need to be installed in order to get the application to work properly. Many applications also employ various web technologies, such as DOM and AJAX, in order to provide a better user experience.
Applications can be used to accomplish virtually any task imaginable, including commercial, financial, medical, education, entertainment, gaming, and many more. Furthermore, software developers are constantly developing new applications that have the potential to revolutionize the way that people interact with computers and the internet.
