What is a Static Website?
Static websites are sites that contain web pages with content that is presented to the user the same as it is stored (unlike dynamic websites, the web pages of which are generated by a web application). These web pages- alternatively termed flat pages or stationary pages- are typically HTML documents which are stored in the file system & are available by web server over HTTP. They contain fixed code, so all visitors receive the same information, which can only be modified by a webmaster. Static web pages are mostly used for smaller websites with content that rarely needs updating.
Static websites with a lot of pages are normally designed by using templates. They can also include web pages stored in a database, or pages with unchanging content served through an application server.
The Importance of a Static Website
- Static websites afford greater security than dynamic sites.
Without multiple plugins or content sources, static websites tend to be more secure than active ones. They employ JavaScript & APIs for the handling of dynamic functions, eliminating the need for dynamic software. Static websites therefore have no intermediary, nor do they rely on CMS plugins. There is essentially no database to pose any vulnerability, as it does not require back-end server-side processing. - They have a level of reliability.
Static websites are more reliable than most others, not only because of heightened security, but also because they can be hosted easily anywhere. This reduces confrontations with database errors or site malfunctions. That is because of their simple construction as HTML files, which makes it easy to redirect static websites to another closest node to avoid the site crashing. - Users can enjoy great performance speed.
According to recent research, approximately 47% of users expect a website to load within 2 seconds. In fact, about 40% will not even wait for more than 3 seconds for a site to load. This makes static websites all the more valuable, as there is no intermediary, no server-side code needs to be executed & HTML files can be served from the node closest to the browser. Traffic will consequently not be lost during page loading. - It is a low-price technique.
Static websites offer a cost-effective solution to web development. The lack of a database means decrease in maintenance, & cheap hosting as HTML files need less space. - Static websites have scalability.
Static websites can be fairly easy to scale, with processes as simple as increasing bandwidth. A site can even be hosted with auto-scaling. Moreover, the absence of a database means that database scaling can be skipped. - There have been a lot of technological advancements to improve the employment of static websites.
Tools like Magento & Snipcart ensure that shop-centric businesses can thrive through static websites. Plus, hosting providers can also deal with redirects, including 404 errors & proxies. Static generators & static website hosting platforms further the user experience. - These sites enable backups.
You can get a complete editorial history- the “who” & the “when”- indirectly, if one uses version control like GIT. It gives the site owner full authority & control. - Static websites have no dependencies.
These sites are do not rely on dynamic software, plugins (including CMS plugins) or a database for smooth functioning, which makes tasks quicker & more efficient, as they are easier to process.
The Process of Developing a Static Website
The top priority in the process of static website design & development is the comprehension & encapsulating of the requirements of the brand & their site. Not every business is recommended to employ static sites, & so the first step for our team of highly skilled web developers would be to ensure our client gets only the very best for their brand. Once thorough discussions are carried out & a concept is mapped, we will continue with implementation. All that has been brainstormed will be put to the test as the site will be active, & observed for any hiccups when it comes to marketing & audience relevance. Provided it passes the testing stage, it will be launched for the key demographic. Otherwise, it will undergo problem resolving phases, which may include redesigning & redevelopment. If the need arises, our team will be open to continue assisting you in the maintenance of the website, as well.
Why opt for Static Website development?
Everything has its pros & cons. With static websites, it’s safe to say that there are more advantages to it, especially with the technical advancements made in recent times. These sites prove ideal for businesses that can have all features implemented with a static state, as they can fulfill each requirement without much hassle. Plus, it’s easy to keep track of! This can help clients remain updated on their online progress, without worrying about being misinformed. Some may still fear the pains these sites posed before, but the many improvements made to them have transformed these websites into significant elements in the process of web development for relevant sites.