Introduction
Websites do not mostly have a definite pattern, there are different navigational patterns, multiple pages within, and more in a website. These parameters however are not sufficient to differentiate websites. At the outset, the primary difference between static and dynamic websites is, as the name suggests, static websites have static content which does not change according to the user. On the other hand, the content on dynamic websites changes on the go and is personalized for each user.
What is a static website?
Created using HTML (mostly; however CSS and Javascript are also used), a static website is stored as a single HTML file for each page, thus creating a series of HTML files (if there are multiple pages). So, for any change to be made that needs to be reflected on the overall website, specific change needs to be made on each one of the HTML files. To understand this better, consider this: A change made in the HTML file of the Home Page will reflect only on the same page, and that goes for similar content on different pages as well. For example, the footer content which is mostly the same across all the pages also needs to be edited specifically on each one of those HTML files to be reflected. Static websites are useful for websites that do not require regular updates and the content of which remains constant. Static websites are also preferred for websites with few pages.
Advantages of a Static website
Faster Website Loading Speed
The pre-written nature of the web pages and its direct delivery from the server ensures that the website loads faster thus creating a viable browsing experience.
Created in a short time
The simple nature of a static website makes it easy to go live faster. They are easier to create and consequently faster to deploy.
Less Expensive
As is evident by the fact that static websites are simpler and do not require complex functionalities, they are cheaper to develop and host.
Enhanced Security
Although this is dependent on how you decide to create your website, the absence of external extensions and plugins leave out no entry for potential hacks.
Disadvantages of a Static Website
Scalability Issues
The larger the website, the more difficult it becomes for it to be created. The building of separate pages is obviously a time consuming process.
Less Management Efficiency
For even a minor change on the website, multiple pages need to be edited for it to reflect. This is made especially difficult in content heavy websites.
What is a Dynamic Website?
Created using server side languages such as PHP and node.js, a dynamic website content is created in real-time when the server receives a request. These websites do not have pre-decided content to display. On the contrary, the content is dependent on user-behavior and user-generated content. These websites are mostly eCommerce or social media websites where the content regularly updates itself and refreshes fast. Each page is not coded specifically but is instead created from a data source. Dynamic websites allow for content to be displayed for a specific user. There are several parameters on which dynamic websites can be deployed such as specific content for users from a specific location. The use of Content Management System (CMS) also comes into play for a dynamic website.
Advantages of a Dynamic Website
Efficient Updates – Content and Design
Changes made on one dynamic page can also be simultaneously made across multiple pages thus making it easier to update content. Also given the nature of the businesses that use dynamic websites such as eCommerce or social media, it is important for it to be regularly updated without taking time. On a similar line, it is easier to change certain similar features of a website such as navigation. Changes made in navigation for one web page will easily reflect on others as well.
Better User Experience
The ability to create content that caters to the specific needs and taste of each user is a brilliant input to have. This ability makes dynamic websites very user friendly and enhances browsing experience to a higher degree.
Multiple Functionality
From user logins to recommendations from history, dynamic websites enable users to explore several things all at once. It is easier to search content, create categories within and the limitless other possibilities in a dynamic website that makes it stand out.
Disadvantages of a Dynamic Website
Complex to Create
The unlimited functionalities of a dynamic website also brings with itself complex development challenges. It is complicated to set up and host.
Expensive to Develop
With immense pros, comes immense costs as well. It is not cheap to create dynamic websites given its complexity.
What is suited for your business?
The answer to this question entirely depends on your requirements and the nature of your business, add to that the resources at your disposal. If you are low on budget and want to see your website up and running faster, a static website is a way to go. However, if your business requires regular user interaction with your products or what you have on offer, a dynamic website is the preferred choice. This also would ensure a personalized experience, if that is one of the requirements for your business. Website design and development companies like HTML experts can help you get your website live without worrying about different factors. They can easily take care of your requirements and deliver what you envision.
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