A website is essentially a collection of interconnected web pages accessed through a homepage using internet browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, etc. The goal of this Web Development tutorial isn’t to turn you into an expert, but to familiarize you with the field and its demands, enabling you to progress towards expertise
What is Web Development?
Web Development helps create websites hosted on the Internet or Intranet through web browsers. It focuses on building apps and pages that operate on these browsers. Some apps rely on the server for operation, while others use it only for data storage and retrieval during the development stage. Web Development includes web design, content creation, scripting, and security setups.
Need for Web Development
Websites bridge the gap between those who have information and those seeking knowledge, enabling global connectivity. Here are a few reasons why websites are essential:
- They provide a platform to advertise the various offers from your organization.
- They allow you to present your ideas and capture the attention of a worldwide audience.
- They enable you to reach potential users and customers on a global scale.
- They can help you launch and grow your own business.
Types of web development
1. Frontend development
Frontend development involves coding the user interface (UI), the part of a website that users interact with and see when they visit. This includes functionalities like signing up, logging in, and viewing different dashboards. Frontend developers, who write this code, use technologies such as HTML, CSS, and frontend JavaScript frameworks like React. Their code often requests information from the backend to enable features like logging in, after which the retrieved information is displayed on the UI, such as showing your profile information on a dashboard. To learn more, check out our beginner’s guide to becoming a front-end developer.
2. Backend development
Backend development primarily involves writing business logic, which manages how information is passed between the front end and back end. The backend, which users cannot see, includes elements like databases where login data is stored. Backend developers write code that dictates the flow of information between users and databases and also develop API (application programming interface) code that adds functionality, such as enabling payments via PayPal. They work with databases like PostgreSQL and MongoDB and backend JavaScript frameworks like Node.js. If you’re interested in learning more about this area, check out our full backend developer guide.
3. Full-stack development
A full-stack developer is someone who writes code for both the front end and back end, enabling them to create a web application from end to end. They can develop the UI, write the logic for data flow between the backend and the user, and handle functionalities like payment integrations. Full-stack developers use technologies such as HTML, CSS, and both frontend and backend JavaScript frameworks to build entire applications.
4. Web Development
Web developers can be front-end, back-end, or full-stack developers. They specialize in creating websites rather than mobile apps, desktop software, or video games.
5. Desktop Development
Developers specialized in desktop applications create software that runs locally on devices, not on web browsers over the Internet. Sometimes, their skills overlap with web developers when an application can function both online and offline.
6. Mobile Development
Developers focused on mobile app development create applications for smartphones and tablets. Mobile apps operate differently from websites and software programs, requiring specific development skills and knowledge of programming languages. (Tip: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly even if you’re not developing an app!)
7. Game Development
Game developers write code for video games, including console games (Xbox, PlayStation, etc.), PC games, and mobile games. This field somewhat intersects with mobile development.
8. Embedded Development
Embedded developers work with non-computer hardware, focusing on electronic interfaces, consumer devices, IoT devices, real-time systems, and more.
As the use of interconnected devices rises with smart appliances, Bluetooth technology, and virtual assistants, embedded development is becoming increasingly sought after.
9. Security Development
Security developers devise methods and protocols to ensure software and website security. They often work as ethical hackers, testing websites for vulnerabilities without malicious intent. They also create systems to identify and eliminate security risks.
What are the five stages of website development?
Step 1: Design Creation
The initial step involves an enjoyable creation process. It typically begins with discussions with the client regarding color schemes, functionalities, special features (like eCommerce), graphics, animations, and the overall appearance of the website. The creative team recommends that the client bring a few website samples they find appealing to the meeting. Following this, the creative team invests time in creating a 2D visualization of the concept.
Step 2: Review
Post-design contemplation, the team presents the website to the client, usually in person. This stage involves further deliberation on layout, color schemes, and other specifics. Subsequent meetings are likely as client feedback often leads to adjustments.
Step 3: Development
With design approval in place, the next step is handing over the website to the developer. The developer commences constructing the website on a production server for client viewing without public exposure. Concurrently, the creative team collaborates with a copywriter and internal teams to refine the voice, content, and graphics of the site. This phase is time-intensive but pivotal.
Step 4: Testing
Following code completion and client content approval, the new site undergoes testing on a test server. The client receives a URL for sharing with colleagues and decision-makers. Minor modifications may be requested before finalizing the site.
Step 5: Launch
Ultimately, the new website is prepared for launch! Once the client endorses it, the developer initiates the launch process, which involves domain purchase and website hosting setup. Propagation may take some time.
Conclusion
Web development offers a wealth of opportunities for creativity and innovation across frontend, backend, and full-stack roles. Understanding the basics and staying updated with the latest trends can help you build functional, engaging, and secure websites. The process involves key stages from design to launch, each requiring careful attention and collaboration. Start your journey today by exploring our guides on different development roles and begin crafting impactful web applications.
