Client-side vs Server-side

What is client-side?

“client-side computer request for information refers to the part of an application that runs in the user's browser. “

or

in other words Client computers are your mobile phones, laptops, desktops, and tablets. So when you go to websites like YouTube, your devices request information from YouTube servers.

You’re the client because your browser asks YouTube if you can watch videos and view web pages. The server computer serves this information, allowing for a seamless browsing experience.

How it works:

1. User requests a webpage by entering a URL.

2. The browser (client) sends a request to the server.

3. The server responds with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files.

4. The browser processes these files and renders the UI.

5. JavaScript handles dynamic behavior, API calls, and interactivity.

What is Server-side?

“The server side refers to the backend where logic, databases, and authentication processes occur.”

How it works:

1. The client sends a request (e.g., login, fetching data).

2. The server processes the request using backend logic.

3. If needed, the server interacts with a database.

4. The server sends a response (data in JSON, HTML, or other formats).

5. The client receives and processes the response (e.g., displays data on UI).

What are the differences between client-side and server-side scripting?

We know that server and client side are web development terms that describe where code runs.

But what does scripting mean? Scripting simply refers to programming languages that automate tasks a human would normally complete.

So client side scripting runs code like JavaScript on your phone or desktop while server-side scripting runs on the back-end server. That way, it can deliver dynamic content to web pages in response to the client device.

For example, if you type your username and password into a website, the request from the client side goes to the server, and processing occurs. Once complete, the server responds to the client with the results.

Client-side vs. server-side languages:

Client side uses the following scripting languages:

1. HTML

2. CSS

3. JavaScript

It also sends requests via web browsers like Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, and Safari. This allows you to receive server information within seconds.

Server side uses coding languages like:

1. PHP

2. JAVA

3. C#

Note that JavaScript can be used for client-side and server-side scripting.

Server-side scripting makes use of hosting platforms like GoDaddy, Siteground, and Bluehost, alongside databases like Oracle.

Client-side vs. server-side web development

Client-side or front-end web developers use their programming talents to create visually appealing websites for users. This means they build homepages, shopping pages, and slideshows.

Server-side or back-end developers create, design, and manage server-side code responsible for data exchange. They specialize in languages like Python, PHP, and Java and help keep your visitor’s information private while ensuring your website runs without any issues.