The main difference between a portable application and an installed application lies in how they are deployed, stored, and interact with the operating system. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:

1. Installation-Based Applications

• Definition: These applications require an installation process to configure the software and prepare it for use on the system.
• Key Characteristics:
  1. Installer Required: You run a setup program (e.g., .exe, .msi, etc.) to install the application.
  2. File Placement: Files are distributed across various directories:
     • Core files in the installation directory (e.g., C:\\Program Files).
     • Configuration files, user settings, and data often stored in system folders (e.g., %APPDATA%, %LOCALAPPDATA%, or the registry on Windows).
  3. Registry Usage: Installation may involve adding entries to the operating system's registry (on Windows) for configuration, licensing, or integration purposes.
  4. System Integration:
     • May create shortcuts, start menu entries, or add startup services.
     • Might require admin permissions to install.
  5. Uninstallation: To remove the application, you typically use an uninstaller that cleans up all files and registry entries.
• Pros:
  • Integrated into the system.
  • Easier to use for non-technical users.
  • Can take advantage of system-level optimizations or dependencies.
• Cons:
  • Requires admin permissions to install.
  • Leaves traces (files, registry entries) after uninstallation.
  • Less portable.

2. Portable Applications

• Definition: These applications do not require installation and can run directly from a single folder, making them self-contained.
• Key Characteristics:
  1. No Installation: You extract or copy the application to a folder, and it’s ready to run.
  2. Self-Contained: All necessary files are stored in the application's folder.
     • Configuration files (e.g., .ini, .json) are stored alongside the application rather than in system directories.
  3. No Registry Dependency: Portable apps typically don’t write to the registry, making them more "clean."
  4. Run Anywhere:
     • Can run from external drives like USBs, or move between computers without reinstallation.
  5. No Uninstallation Needed:
     • To remove the app, simply delete its folder.
• Pros:
  • Highly portable and lightweight.
  • Leaves no footprint on the system (ideal for shared or restricted environments).
  • No admin permissions required to use.
• Cons:
  • Limited system integration (e.g., no automatic shortcuts or startup services).
  • May lack some features that require installation or system-level access.

When to Use Each

Example Use Cases

1. Portable:
   • A lightweight hex editor you keep on a USB drive for occasional use.
   • Applications used in environments where installation is restricted (e.g., work computers).
2. Installed:
   • Complex software requiring extensive system integration (e.g., Microsoft Office, games, or system utilities).