Modern websites can be broadly classified into two categories – dynamic and static. Static sites display fixed information while dynamic sites generate content in real-time based on user inputs. In this article, we will delve deeper into static websites and how you can create one using a static site generator (SSG).
An SSG is an application that automatically develops the files (PHP, CSS, HTML, etc.) required to build a static website. These tools have gained prominence recently due to their ease of use and flexibility. You can use an SSG as a standalone solution or integrate it into your preferred web architecture. Let’s walk you through the process of static site generation and help you grasp the basics.
What is a Static Website?
A static webpage displays fixed information that does not change with the user input. They cannot interact with users or update information in real-time. These pages are published to display the same information to all visitors. Static websites are easier to build and maintain, suitable for publishing information that does not change frequently, and compatible with all the popular blog hosting plans. Examples of static websites include personal blogs, portfolio sites, galleries, ad landing pages, information websites like wikis, etc.
Pros
- They do not require advanced technical knowledge to build or maintain
- They load relatively more quickly than dynamic pages
- They are less prone to hacking as they lack dynamic databases
- They require fewer resources and cost much less to operate
- They can be easily optimized for search engine crawlers
Cons
- They lack the interactivity of dynamic pages
- They cannot update content in real-time
What is a Dynamic Website?
A dynamic webpage generates content in real-time in response to user inputs. These pages are written using dynamic programming languages JavaScript, Python, Ruby, PHP, Lua, and Perl. Dynamic sites offer several interactive features like contact forms, live chat, user registration, shopping carts, and more. Plus, they can handle larger traffic volumes. Therefore, you should upgrade to an IP dedicated server hosting plan to ensure maximum uptime. Examples of dynamic websites include eCommerce stores, social media platforms, content management systems, etc.
Pros
- They streamline user interaction
- These websites can be used to deliver more personalized content
- They are easier to update in real-time than static pages
- They allow website owners to gather user behavior data
- These sites are more flexible and scalable, making them ideal for business use
Cons
- They need more resources and powerful infrastructure
- They can be more difficult to optimize for search engine crawlers
What is a Static Site Generator?
A static website generator is a tool used to generate an HTML website based on a set of templates and raw data. An SSG automates the process of coding individual pages. This saves users the time and effort required for generating each web page manually. Static site generators are an alternative to content management systems and are typically part of a JAMstack web development strategy.
While you don’t need an SSG or CMS to create static pages if you are familiar with CSS, PHP, HTML, and other programming languages, they can streamline website building. Alternatively, you can use web frameworks such as Bootstrap to access advanced architectures and code libraries to create static web pages.
However, static site generators offer several benefits compared to the other approaches. For starters, if you are unfamiliar with programming languages and don’t have the budget to hire a professional web developer to create and launch your business website, an SSG can help you get off the mark.
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Key Features of Static Site Generators
The best static site generators offer several powerful features to help you build fully functional websites without technical know-how. Here are its key features.
- Supports Markdown Languages: Most SSGs don’t include comprehensive text editors. Instead, they rely on Markdown languages and additional Markdown syntaxes.
- Built-in Layout and Templating Options: Website designing is often the most challenging part of page building. That is why most CMSs like WordPress and Joomla support premade templates and responsive themes. The best SSGs offer the same benefits.
- SEO Functionality: Modern websites are lost at sea without SEO optimization. Therefore, top-rated SSGs are optimized right out of the box. If your shortlisted static website generator does not have SEO functionalities, you should switch to a different tool.
- Supports Multiple Content Types: A modern static site generator supports various content types, such as pages, posts, custom post types, media, galleries, and more. Choose one that offers the most elements right out of the box.
Note: To use a static site generator, you need a basic knowledge of programming languages. While SSGs streamline site-building, you must be familiar with concepts such as Markdown syntaxes, command line, etc.
Why Do You Need a Static Site Generator?
If you’re wondering why anyone would need a static website generator when platforms like WordPress and Wix are available, you’re not alone. There are several reasons why someone would use an SSG instead of a CMS.
For starters, static sites consume fewer server resources and load quickly. Secondly, no databases are involved in hosting static sites. Every visitor will see the same static page, the contents of which are stored in the SSG itself. Furthermore, static website generators are leaner than CMSs, are highly modular, have fewer complications, and are easier to use for experienced webmasters. This means that websites created using SSGs bloat less and load within a fraction of a second, even on low bandwidth internet connections.
Static Site Generators vs Content Management Systems: What are the Differences?
In the early days of the World Wide Web, webpages were static. However, web development was largely inefficient as coders needed to design pages individually from scratch. Content Management Systems eliminated the need for manual development by creating and storing universal page templates and elements and recalling them when users requested to view a page.
Like a CMS, an SSG allows web developers to use templates and generate websites automatically. However, it does so before time instead of when a user requests to view a webpage. This makes static websites faster than their dynamic counterparts as the pages are ready for rendering on users’ devices.
Conclusion
To sum things up, a static site generator streamlines website development for technical users. Unlike CMSs, they do not rely heavily on plugins and templates and require basic knowledge of programming languages to operate. However, SSGs automate the process of building webpages manually, helping webmasters create fully functional, responsive, SEO-optimized, and fast-loading sites quickly and efficiently.
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FAQ
What is the use of a Static Site Generator?
A static site generator renders static pages ahead of time so users can view pages quickly. They are ideal for creating pages that require minimal server-side rendering.
How does a Static Website Generator work?
A static website generator creates fully functional static pages based on premade templates and raw data. It automates page-building by eliminating the need for coding individual pages.
What is the difference between an SSG and a CMS?
Static site generators develop static pages from template engines while CMSs use dynamic programming language to build customized experiences based on user inputs.
SSG vs CMS: Which should I use?
Whether you should use an SSG or a CMS will depend on your requirements. CMSs are ideal for amateur users while SSGs require basic coding knowledge to operate.
Is SSG better or CMS?
Both SSG and CMS have their share of pros and cons. We recommend comparing the two to see which is a better fit for you.
