Difference Between Win32 (Desktop) and Store Apps in Windows 10

Win32 refers to the traditional desktop software that we’ve always installed on our PC. All of the software that we download from various websites on the Internet, or we buy on a CD are called Win32 apps. When dealing with Win32 apps, we have to make sure that they don’t have viruses. Typically Win32 apps need UAC permissions to install and also use more power on laptops and tablets (compared to Store apps).

Store apps only come either from the Microsoft Store or from our own company. Store apps are completely sandboxed which means they can’t interact with other apps on the operating system in ways that Win32 apps can. They are also much more secure against malware and viruses compared to Win32 apps. They are also more power efficient because they are suspended when they are not in focus. This means that when we switch to a different app, the Store apps in the background stop using any processor time which can prolong the battery life on the laptop or tablet. Store apps can also be installed for the current user without UAC permission being required, making them more flexible when users need to install them.

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