desktop app

Local computer program

A desktop app is software that runs directly on a personal computer rather than in a web browser or on a mobile device.

Desktop apps are installed on the machine and typically offer more power and offline functionality than their web-based counterparts: I prefer the desktop app to the web version—it's faster.

Also called a desktop application.

Related
  • softwarePrograms directing computer operations
  • programPlanned sequence of actions
  • iconPictorial screen symbol
  • windowGlass-fitted wall opening
  • installPut into service

click · toolbar · shortcut · download · launch · taskbar · minimize · interface · application · executable · drag · drag and drop · widget · menu · start menu · system tray · cursor · native

Categories
Opposites
deployment and execution location

desktop appweb app

Internet-accessed software

SaaS · online application · web application · streaming app · browser extension

device form factor

desktop appmobile app

Touchscreen device program

smartphone app

Family

desk, top, app, desks, tops, apps, apply, applied, applying

Familiarity
Top 200,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G