Something that is autonomous exists without the need for extras to operate. In the world of computers and the Internet, the basic definition of a stand-alone program is a program that works as it does when it is initialized or started. However, standalone software contrasts with a variety of other types of software, and there are several somewhat contrasting concepts.
man holding computer
System software is the underlying software that runs on a computer. A computer application is designed to run on one or more types of system software. System software is not considered standalone software, a term generally used only to apply to application software.
A plug-in is a plug-in that enhances the operation of a software application. It may be provided by the manufacturer or created by a third party and may be freeware, shareware, or software for purchase. In any case, since it depends on the underlying software application that is running, it is not an example of a stand-alone program, but the software it comes with may well be a stand-alone program. Modular software is often a larger product than an add-on, but it also plugs into an underlying foundation. If the base works on its own, it might be standalone software, but if you need one of the modules to work, it might not work, and modules certainly aren’t.
An application suite is generally a group of separate software bundled together for marketing purposes. Sometimes, in addition to stand-alone programs, an application package includes software that is used to connect individual parts of the package. If this software cannot be used alone, without the other components of the package, then it is not standalone software.
Another meaning of standalone software refers to the location from which it is run. There is software that can run from a storage device without being installed on the computer. Software that does not require installation but can still be run is another meaning given to the term standalone software.
Some programs can’t run without calling system resources, for example. Software that runs without reference to the environment is another type of software known as a stand-alone program.
