A standalone device can operate independently of other hardware. This means it is not part of another device. Standalones also refer to a software program that does not require any software other than the operating system to run. This means that the vast majority of software applications are stand-alone programs. TiVo box that records television programs is a standalone device, while a DVR integrated into a digital cable box is not. Typically, integrated devices are less expensive than multiple standalones products performing the same functions. Plug-ins and expansion packs for video games are not independent programs. They won’t work unless a specific program already installed.