No, in most case scenario there is no requirement for a special application or software to be loaded into the system. This is because they work as like any other input device, either connected to the computer with the help of a cord or another option is that with the help of Bluetooth, wifi or with a pre-connected device to the computer. While this doesn't hold firm for some products as some companies opt for the specially designed software. With the help of which only the barcode scanner can function properly.