PlatformA platform is a general term used in computing to signify the type of operating system and perhaps additional hardware a computer uses to perform functions and communicate in a networked environment. When applied to the WWW user, the client computer's platform dictates the type of applications and utilities that the client may access. Common examples of platforms are Macintosh, PC, and Unix.
Perhaps the most relevant example of platform differences relevant to WWW users are the differences in the same browsers when applied to various platforms. Mosaic, Netscape, and various other WWW browsers are available to PC, Macintosh, and Unix users, but each browser is configured differently to accommodate the differences in the platforms. Therefore, a user wishing to download a version of Mosaic via an FTP program such as Fetch would have to obtain the browser version specific to his/her computer's platform. A program written specifically for the PC will not run on Macintosh or Unix machines (unless noted). This example extends to the many free- and shareware software applications available to computer users. World Wide Users wishing to download applications for viewing images, listening to audio files, or programming must pay attention to the platform information given in the description of the software.
Sometimes knowing that you're sitting in front of, for example, a Macintosh computer is not enough information to successfully choose platform specific software. A computer's platform is a combination of its operating system and other relevant hardware. In some instances, upgrades in system software can prevent a user from utilizing software written for their operating system. In order to be sure that you understand the definition of platform applied to your computer, you should read the manual with your computer and always carefully read information available on the Internet about available software.
WWW users who wish to download software not specifically written for their machine may be able to port the source code needed to "fill in the gaps" necessary to make the client and software understand each other better. When it is possible to port the needed source code to your machine, the software providers will include a document to instruct you in the process.