Desktop App Development

Desktop Application

• Definition: A desktop application (desktop app) is software designed to run on personal computers (Windows, macOS, Linux).
• Purpose: Provides functionality directly on a PC without requiring a web browser.
• Characteristics:
  • Installed locally (via installer or package manager).
  • Runs on the operating system (OS) and uses system resources (CPU, memory, disk).
  • Can work offline without internet connection.
  • Often has richer access to hardware and system APIs compared to web apps.
• Examples:
  • Productivity → Microsoft Word, Excel.
  • Creative → Photoshop, AutoCAD.
  • Communication → Skype, Slack (desktop version).
  • Utilities → File managers, antivirus software.

Desktop App Development

• Definition: The process of designing, coding, testing, and maintaining applications for desktop operating systems.
• Platforms:
  • Windows: Apps built with C#, .NET, C++, or Electron.
  • macOS: Apps built with Swift, Objective‑C, or cross‑platform frameworks.
  • Linux: Apps built with C/C++, Python, GTK, Qt.

Approaches

• Native Development:
  • Uses platform‑specific languages and frameworks.
  • Example: C# with .NET for Windows, Swift for macOS.
  • Best performance and deep OS integration.
• Cross‑Platform Development:
  • One codebase runs on multiple desktop OS.
  • Frameworks: Electron (JavaScript/HTML/CSS), Qt (C++), JavaFX.
• Hybrid/Desktop Web Wrappers:
  • Web technologies packaged as desktop apps.
  • Example: Slack, VS Code (built with Electron).

Core Components

• Front‑end (UI/UX): Windows, menus, buttons, dialogs.
• Back‑end (Logic): File handling, data processing, system integration.
• Database/Storage: Local files, SQLite, or cloud sync.
• Middleware: APIs connecting app logic with OS services.

Development Process

1. Planning: Define app purpose, features, and target OS.
2. Design: Create UI mockups and workflows.
3. Development: Write code for front‑end and back‑end.
4. Testing: Check performance, compatibility, and security.
5. Deployment: Package installers (MSI for Windows, DMG for macOS).
6. Maintenance: Updates, bug fixes, new features.

Tools & Languages

• Windows: C#, .NET, Visual Studio.
• macOS: Swift, Objective‑C, Xcode.
• Linux: C/C++, Python, GTK, Qt.
• Cross‑Platform: Electron (JavaScript), JavaFX, Flutter (desktop support).
• Databases: SQLite, PostgreSQL, MySQL.