Web Development is the process of building and maintaining websites and web applications that run on the internet. It involves a combination of frontend development, backend development, and supporting tools or workflows that connect the two.
At its foundation, web development relies on the triad of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, extended with modern frameworks, build tools, and deployment workflows.
Core Areas
Frontend Development
The client-side portion of web development that focuses on what users see and interact with.
- Built with HTML for structure, CSS for styling, and JavaScript for interactivity
- Often uses frameworks like React to create Single Page Applications
- Build tools like Vite speed up development and optimize production builds
Backend Development
The server-side portion that manages data, authentication, APIs, and business logic.
- Can be written in languages like Python, Node.js, Java, Ruby, or PHP
- Databases (SQL or NoSQL) handle persistent storage
- REST or GraphQL APIs often connect frontend and backend
Full-Stack Development
Refers to working with both frontend and backend technologies, often combining tools like React (frontend) with Node.js + Express (backend).
Key Concepts
Client-Server Model
Web applications follow a client-server architecture where browsers (clients) send requests to servers, which respond with data or rendered content.
Static vs Dynamic Websites
- Static: Served as prebuilt pages (good for portfolios or blogs).
- Dynamic: Generated on the fly using backend logic (good for dashboards, ecommerce, etc.).
Responsive Design
Ensuring websites adapt to different screen sizes and devices, often handled with CSS features like media queries, Flexbox, and Grid.
Progressive Enhancement
Building applications that work on all browsers but offer advanced functionality on modern ones.
DevOps and Deployment
Tools like GitHub Actions, Vercel, or Netlify automate deployment pipelines (CI/CD), allowing smooth delivery of changes.
Skills Involved
- Strong understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Familiarity with frameworks such as React for frontend
- Knowledge of server-side programming and APIs
- Database management (SQL/NoSQL)
- Version control with Git and GitHub
- Build tools like Vite for efficient development workflows
Purpose
Web Development aims to build applications that are functional, user-friendly, secure, and scalable. From static websites to large scale dynamic applications, it combines design, logic, and infrastructure to bring ideas to life on the internet.