The difference in desktop and web applications is explained in a very simple manner. Desktop application is a computer program that runs locally on a computer device like a desktop or a laptop whereas a web application needs an internet connection or some sort of network to work properly. Desktop apps are restricted by the hardware requirements of the device on which they run. However, a web application can be used by anyone who has access to the web browser.

Both desktop and web application have their pros and cons, but it depends a lot on the user environment on how best they could be used.