Desktop applications, also sometimes called native applications, are software programs designed to run specifically on a personal computer's operating system (OS) like Windows, macOS, or Linux.  They are installed directly onto the computer's hard drive and utilize the computer's processing power and resources to function.

Here's a closer look at key characteristics of desktop applications:

Installation and Local Storage:

• Desktop applications are typically downloaded from the software developer's website or purchased on physical media like CDs or DVDs.

• Once downloaded, they are installed onto the user's computer, occupying storage space on the hard drive.

Direct Interaction with OS:

• Desktop applications interact directly with the computer's operating system, leveraging its features and functionalities.

• This allows them to access hardware components like the keyboard, mouse, camera, and local storage for data processing and user interaction.

Offline Functionality:

• A significant advantage of desktop applications is their ability to function without an internet connection in many cases.

• Once installed, they can be used even in offline scenarios, as all the necessary program files and data reside locally on the computer.

Examples of Desktop Applications:

• Productivity Suites: Software packages like Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or LibreOffice (Writer, Calc, Impress) offer word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation creation functionalities.

• Image Editing Software: Programs like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, or Corel PaintShop Pro allow users to edit and manipulate digital images.

• Video Editing Software: Applications such as Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or Final Cut Pro cater to video editing and post-production tasks.

• Web Browsers: Software like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge enable users to navigate the internet and access web pages.

• Games: A vast array of video games are designed specifically for desktops, offering a wide range of genres and playstyles.

Comparison to Web Applications:

• In contrast to web applications, which are accessed through a web browser and run on remote servers, desktop applications provide a more feature-rich and potentially faster user experience due to their direct interaction with the computer's resources.

• However, desktop applications require installation, consume local storage space, and might not offer the same level of accessibility across different devices compared to web applications.

In essence, desktop applications remain a fundamental category of software, offering powerful functionalities for various computing needs. Their combination of offline operability, tight integration with the operating system, and potential for rich user experiences continues to make them valuable tools for personal and professional computing tasks.