Application vs. Applet — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 8, 2024
An application is a full-featured, standalone software program, often extensive and complex, whereas an applet is a small application designed to perform a specific task within a larger program or webpage.
Difference Between Application and Applet
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An application, often simply called an app, is designed to operate independently on a computing device, serving a broad range of functions. On the other hand, an applet is typically a small component that requires a host program or web browser to run.
Applications can be complete software tools like word processors or games, providing extensive functionality. Whereas applets, such as a Java applet, are usually limited to smaller, more specific tasks within a webpage, like interactive animations or calculators.
Applications are installed on a computer or mobile device and have access to the system resources, allowing them to perform complex operations. In contrast, applets are embedded within web pages and run in a restricted environment, which limits their access to resources and capabilities to ensure security.
Developers create applications to function as complete software solutions, often with user customization options and full access to hardware capabilities. Applets, however, are designed to complement existing applications or websites by adding interactive elements without the need for full-scale installation.
While applications are designed for a wide range of platforms and devices, applets are primarily designed to work within web browsers and require specific runtime environments like the Java Runtime Environment to operate.
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Comparison Chart
Scope
Broad functionality, standalone
Specific functionality, dependent
Installation
Requires installation on a device
No installation needed, runs in browser
Resource Access
Full access to system resources
Limited access, runs in a sandbox
User Interface
Comprehensive and customizable
Minimal and fixed
Usage Environment
Desktops, mobile devices, servers
Web browsers
Compare with Definitions
Application
Often requires regular updates and maintenance.
Applications frequently prompt users to install updates to improve functionality or security.
Applet
A small application embedded within a webpage.
A stock ticker on a financial website might be powered by an applet.
Application
Designed to run on computers and mobile devices.
Most applications can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.
Applet
Requires a supportive software environment to run.
Java applets require a browser with Java support.
Application
A software program that performs specific tasks.
Microsoft Word is an application for word processing.
Applet
Often used for small, specific tasks within websites.
A weather applet on a news page provides local weather updates.
Application
Can be large and complex software systems.
Adobe Photoshop is a complex application for graphic design.
Applet
Designed for limited interaction.
An applet might only display interactive content without storing user data.
Application
Customizable to fit user needs.
Applications often allow users to adjust settings for a personalized experience.
Applet
Runs in a controlled, secure environment.
Applets operate in a sandbox to prevent access to sensitive system resources.
Application
The act of applying.
Applet
In computing, an applet is any small application that performs one specific task that runs within the scope of a dedicated widget engine or a larger program, often as a plug-in. The term is frequently used to refer to a Java applet, a program written in the Java programming language that is designed to be placed on a web page.
Application
Something applied, such as a cosmetic or curative agent.
Applet
A small program designed to be downloaded from the internet to run on a webpage that a user is accessing.
Application
The act of putting something to a special use or purpose
An application of a new method.
Applet
(computing) a small program module that runs under the control of a larger application, typically a web browser
Application
A specific use to which something is put
The application of science to industry.
Applet
A Java application; an application program that uses the client's web browser to provide a user interface
Application
The capacity of being usable; relevance
Geometry has practical application in aviation and navigation.
Application
Close attention; diligence
Shows application to her work.
Application
A request, as for assistance, employment, or admission to a school.
Application
The form or document on which such a request is made.
Application
(Computers) A computer program designed for a specific task or use.
Application
Of or being a computer program designed for a specific task or use
Applications software for a missile guidance system.
Application
The act of applying or laying on, in a literal sense
The application of this cream should reduce the swelling.
Application
The substance applied.
Application
The act of applying as a means; the employment of means to accomplish an end; specific use.
Application
The act of directing or referring something to a particular case, to discover or illustrate agreement or disagreement, fitness, or correspondence.
I make the remark, and leave you to make the application.
The application of a theory to a set of data can be challenging.
Application
(computing) A computer program or the set of software that the end user perceives as a single entity as a tool for a well-defined purpose. (Also called: application program; application software.)
This iPhone application can connect to most social networks.
Application
A verbal or written request for assistance or employment or admission to a school, course or similar.
December 31 is the deadline for MBA applications.
Application
A petition, entreaty, or other request, with the adposition for denoting the subject matter.
Their application for a deferral of the hearing was granted.
Application
The act of requesting, claiming, or petitioning something.
Application
Diligence; close thought or attention.
Application
A kind of needlework; appliqué.
Application
(obsolete) Compliance.
Application
The act of applying or laying on, in a literal sense; as, the application of emollients to a diseased limb.
Application
The thing applied.
He invented a new application by which blood might be stanched.
Application
The act of applying as a means; the employment of means to accomplish an end; specific use.
If a right course . . . be taken with children, there will not be much need of the application of the common rewards and punishments.
Application
The act of directing or referring something to a particular case, to discover or illustrate agreement or disagreement, fitness, or correspondence; as, I make the remark, and leave you to make the application; the application of a theory.
Application
That part of a sermon or discourse in which the principles before laid down and illustrated are applied to practical uses; the "moral" of a fable.
Application
The capacity of being practically applied or used; relevancy; as, a rule of general application.
Application
The act of fixing the mind or closely applying one's self; assiduous effort; close attention; as, to injure the health by application to study.
Had his application been equal to his talents, his progress might have been greater.
Application
The act of making request of soliciting; as, an application for an office; he made application to a court of chancery.
Application
A request; a document containing a request; as, his application was placed on file.
Application
A verbal or written request for assistance or employment or admission to a school;
December 31 is the deadline for applications
Application
The act of bringing something to bear; using it for a particular purpose;
He advocated the application of statistics to the problem
A novel application of electronics to medical diagnosis
Application
A program that gives a computer instructions that provide the user with tools to accomplish a task;
He has tried several different word processing applications
Application
The work of applying something;
The doctor prescribed a topical application of iodine
A complete bleach requires several applications
The surface was ready for a coating of paint
Application
Liquid preparation having a soothing or antiseptic or medicinal action when applied to the skin;
A lotion for dry skin
Application
A diligent effort;
It is a job requiring serious application
Common Curiosities
Are applications safer than applets?
Applications can be safer as they don’t necessarily depend on a browser and are subject to rigorous security measures before installation.
Can applets access the files on your computer?
Normally, applets cannot access local files due to sandbox security restrictions unless explicitly granted permission by the user.
What is the main difference between an application and an applet?
The main difference is their scope and dependency; applications are standalone and broad in functionality, while applets are dependent, smaller components running within another environment.
Do all web browsers support Java applets?
No, not all browsers support Java applets due to security concerns; support has been phasing out.
Can an application interact with an applet?
Yes, applications can interact with applets, especially within a browser, where both may be part of a larger system.
How do you install an application?
Applications can be installed by downloading them from the internet or using a physical medium like a CD and following the installation process.
Can an applet run without the internet?
Generally, applets require internet access as they are often embedded in web pages and depend on online content.
What does it mean when an applet is deprecated?
It means that the applet is no longer supported or recommended for use, often due to security risks or outdated technology.
Why are applets less common now?
They are less common due to security vulnerabilities and the rise of more secure and versatile web technologies like HTML5.
Is coding for applications different from coding for applets?
Yes, coding for applications can involve a variety of programming languages and frameworks, depending on the platform, whereas applets, like Java applets, typically require specific languages like Java.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
