PowerServer is a powerful solution that allows developers to modernize and deploy existing PowerBuilder applications as cloud-enabled web apps, without the need to rewrite code.
Available in the PowerBuilder CloudPro Edition, the PowerServer project is a specialized project type that transforms traditional client/server applications into installable cloud-based apps. This innovative approach enables seamless installation of applications on user desktops via a web URL. Once installed, the application runs independently as a desktop app, while all database operations are executed securely in the cloud. This setup enhances accessibility, improves user experience, and maintains full support for nearly all PowerBuilder features by leveraging a REST API architecture and standard REST/JSON communication.
PowerServer is built on modern technologies such as .NET Core, allowing for cross-platform deployment, scalability, and long-term maintainability. Applications benefit from a granular file structure, supporting incremental updates based on user interaction. This makes application management and delivery more efficient while minimizing the impact on users.
Key benefits of PowerServer include:
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Installable Cloud Apps: Applications can be installed via a simple URL and run like native desktop apps.
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Cloud-Hosted Database Operations: Secure, centralized access to data via REST APIs.
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Browser Independence: Runs outside of browser constraints while still offering a web-based deployment model.
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Minimal Code Changes: Existing PowerBuilder codebases require only small modifications for deployment.
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Modern Web Architecture: Built on .NET Core, using REST/JSON for streamlined and secure communication.
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Incremental Updates: Granular architecture allows only changed files to be updated, improving performance and usability.
With PowerServer, developers can quickly and efficiently transform legacy PowerBuilder applications into modern cloud solutions, unlocking the full potential of web application development while preserving core application logic and design.
