What is a static web page vs a dynamic one?

What is a static web page vs a dynamic one?

Currently, it is essential, whether as a brand, as a company or as a professional, to have your own website. It is the only way to have a real presence on the internet and the best way to reach those potential customers.

The types of web pages are diverse, but you must choose one according to the purpose you have or have your business. Although, if we take into account only the structure of the page, you must decide between two options: the static web page or the dynamic web page.

What is a static web page

To select the structure that best suits what you want to project on the internet, it is essential to know what is a static and a dynamic web page. Each one presents completely different languages, costs, loading speeds and functionalities.

A static page, also known as a flat page, is the web portal that displays permanent, fixed content that is not updated. There the user is limited to reading or obtaining information, without the possibility of interaction.

Static web pages can be developed by applying basic knowledge of some programming language. The most common being HTML, which it’s a simple code. In addition, a simple style sheet is used, for example, notepad.

Among the static pages are those of:

  • Presentation of companies.
  • Product presentation.
  • Digital resumes.
  • Porfolios.

What is a dynamic web page

Unlike static ones, dynamic pages are those that contain certain functionalities to offer interactivity with the user. They can be created by CMS, external applications that give the possibility of including themes and installing plugins to expand the interaction tools with whoever is browsing.

Today, practically all pages on the Internet are dynamic in nature. Apparently you can create static web pages using CMS, such as WordPress, but just using this type of application does the page fall under the definition of dynamic.  

Under the concept of dynamics are found the pages of:

  • Online stores.
  • Surveys.
  • Forums.
  • Customer service.
  • News.

Differences of static and dynamic web page

The differences that exist between a static web page and a dynamic one can be clearly seen through the list of favourable or unfavourable characteristics that each one possesses.

Features of a static page

A static website for you or your company has the following characteristics:

  1. They are fast web construction. Because they are basic and simple pages, they can be created quickly. Of course, using at least the basic knowledge of programming.
  2. They have greater security. Static pages contain no scripts, and because they are also low code, they are more difficult for cyberattacks.
  3. They offer faster loading speeds. This is because static pages use less HTML code.
  4. They manage to position themselves better. Because Google gives a more privileged positioning to pages that load fast and are easy to build (less code).
  5. They limit the design to texts and images, because they do not use elements to add functionalities.
  6. They complicate the update process. To change or update the web design greater knowledge of the language used is required, normally HTML.
  • They are unaware of the user’s actions. They are pages whose purpose is not to store user data, a fact that makes their use difficult for marketing strategies. Although the Analytics tool can be included.
  • Features of a dynamic page

    The characteristics that identify dynamic web pages are the following:

      1. They require more dedication of time. Due to their interactive nature, they contain various sections that must be configured. So it takes more time to create them and to update them. Of course, if you use a CMS, everything is easier and time is shortened.

      1. They are more vulnerable to cyberattacks. Being used by more people, they can also be the target of malicious attacks. But this is solved by adding protection.

      1. They offer unlimited functionalities and design possibilities. This type of page has more complex code than HTML, it has applications, and you can add plugins to it to extend the functionalities and customize the design.

      1. They facilitate the creation and update process. Thanks to the use of CMS, such as PrestaShop or WordPress, it is easy to both design and update dynamic pages, especially if you have little programming knowledge.

      1. They offer interaction with users. Dynamic pages have the option of adapting your content or the services you offer according to the type of user. That’s why they’re great for implementing custom actions and driving sales.

      1. They generate a higher initial cost. Especially because dynamic pages have their own database and need more storage space. Although, the use of a CMS can significantly reduce that cost.

    Which type of page to choose: static or dynamic

    Knowing what a static and dynamic web page is gives you the necessary tools to know which one best suits what you want to create.

    With the characteristics shown, the great difference between a static and a dynamic web page is fully evident. So you can select the right option for the web project you have in mind, for what you want to deliver to the user and for the availability of time or money you have.

    For example, if you require a web page just to present your company, without executing changes, you can choose a static page. But if you plan to open an online store, in which prices and products are updated and, in addition, you want to offer a payment channel, then you must select a completely dynamic page.

    Another option is to create a mixed page, leave static the part of your page that does not require interactivity and make dynamic the parts that need to offer functionality to the browser.

    To make the best decision and create a page that suits your needs, you can contact us. At Doowebs, we are a company specialized in web design and development in Valencia, in the registration of hosting and domains and digital marketing services and SEO positioning.