What term describes software applications that are accessed via the Internet rather than being installed locally?

The term that describes software applications accessed via the Internet rather than being installed locally is "Cloud App." Cloud applications operate on a distributed cloud infrastructure, allowing users to utilize the service over the Internet without needing to download or install the software on personal devices. This model offers several advantages, including easy accessibility from anywhere with an Internet connection, automatic updates, and potentially lower costs, as it often falls under a subscription model rather than a one-time purchase.

Other terms, while related, convey different meanings. A web application, for instance, refers specifically to applications that run on web browsers. It can be a type of cloud app, but not all cloud apps are necessarily web-based or limited to browser interactions. Remote software typically implies the use of software that is stored and operated on a separate system, but it may not accurately describe the cloud-based model. Cloud infrastructure refers to the underlying network and systems that provide computing resources in the cloud, which does not directly address the applications themselves. Therefore, "Cloud App" captures the intended meaning most accurately.