Easy Computer Repair

Online/Offline Software Applications

July 18, 2008 – 9:45 am

I have been hearing about software that is called online and offline.  Can you provide some simple insight into what these descriptions mean and how it might affect me?

No matter what the software, it had to be created through programming.  The online and offline terms usually refers to a difference in how a user might access the specific software.  Offline refers to the use of software that is traditional, in that you buy a CD then load it up on your computer.  It is then stored on your PC and ready for you to use anytime directly from your computer.  Any files that are made as a result of using the software will normally be stored on the same computer on within a closed corporate network. 

Online refers to the use of software that you access via Internet connectivity.   The software is not loaded on your PC but rather it is located on a remote server which you are connected to via the Internet.  Most times any data or files you create are also stored on that same remote server so that you can access them from where ever you want via the Internet. 

There are of course pros and cons to each type of offering.  It will all depend on how and where you want to use the specific application.  Many people will have a combination of these types of applications they use every day.  If you need more information on online versus offline software applications, give a call to iNeedTech.com