The Web Browser Application

Web-based database applications are generally easy to deploy and update and require no installation in the client computer.  They are restricted to the tools and functionality that is supported by a standard web browser.  Typically, browser-browser applications host their data in a database server that provides the necessary scalability, performance and database-level security.

Well designed browser-based database applications run under any browser and consequently can be deployed to disparate operating systems, from PCs to handheld computers and even to web-enabled cell phones.   The asynchronous click-and-refresh communication between the Client application and the Server limit the browser-based approach to application that are suitable to simple forms and linear workflow.

Web browser-based database applications are typically less secure than desktop based database applications because the interface is asynchronous which can be exploited by malignant individuals. 

The complexity of Web applications security and combined with inherent MS Access database security issues limits the Web based database Application to non critical data.  Intranet (private) applications are inherently much more secure than internet (public facing) web based database applications, simply due to the limited accessibility of the user.  Detailed Comparison: Browser App vs. Smart Client

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