October 25, 2024
Server-side rendering (SSR) and client-side rendering (CSR) are two different approaches for generating web pages
Server-Side Rendering (SSR)
- Process: In SSR, the HTML for a page is generated on the server. When a user requests a page, the server compiles the HTML, often using templates and back-end logic, and sends it to the browser.
- Performance: Initial load times can be faster because the server provides fully rendered HTML, reducing the need for the browser to process heavy JavaScript initially. It also improves SEO because search engines receive pre-rendered HTML content.
- Examples: Traditional websites with PHP, ASP.NET, and frameworks like Next.js (in SSR mode) or Ruby on Rails.
Client-Side Rendering (CSR)
- Process: In CSR, the server sends a minimal HTML shell with JavaScript, which is processed by the browser to dynamically build the content. The JavaScript fetches data (usually via APIs) and generates the HTML on the client’s side.
- Performance: CSR can result in slower initial load times, as the browser must download and execute JavaScript before displaying content. However, once loaded, interactions within the app are generally faster because the app doesn’t need to reload entire pages.
- Examples: Single-page applications (SPAs) built with frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js, where much of the page rendering happens on the client side.
Summary of Key Differences
| Aspect | Server-Side Rendering | Client-Side Rendering |
|---|---|---|
| Rendering Location | Server | Client |
| Initial Load Speed | Often faster | Often slower |
| SEO | Better (HTML is ready for crawlers) | Challenging, requires workarounds |
| Interactivity | Page reloads needed for new views | Faster interactions post-load |
Both SSR and CSR have trade-offs, so modern web applications often combine them for improved performance and user experience.