Published:May 12, 2020
Updated: November 15, 2023
Views: 340
Before we delve into the reasons, let's first understand what static and database-powered websites are.
Static websites are essentially a blend of HTML, CSS, and Javascript, devoid of backend calculations and databases. These websites have all files pre-deployed, ready for user access without any runtime manipulation of files or data.
On the other hand, database-powered websites, also known as dynamic websites, are the most widely adopted approach worldwide. These websites have a database for data manipulation and display. They allow data insertion from the user into the database and vice versa, enabling content changes according to user requirements.
Given the way both approaches handle user requests, static websites are generally more secure than their database counterparts. Database websites are susceptible to manipulation by hackers or can be attacked through Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS).
You might be familiar with WordPress and how it simplifies website building and content management. However, despite its popularity, it has its share of problems, which we discuss in our post on why we don't use WordPress. There are many other CMS that can manage your website, add new content, upload photos, change information, etc.
Contrary to popular belief, static websites can also utilize CMS. While database websites can be instantly changed by saving the new change, static sites require a deployment process post-change. This doesn't mean static sites are not versatile. For instance, our website is a static site, and we still add new projects and posts on our blog through CMS.
Although we prefer developing static sites, they may not be suitable for every scenario. If your needs include multiple user registration, product management, payments, etc., a database website is the right choice. However, for company promotion websites with mostly static content, static sites are a perfect fit. Even adding a blog with posts or changing content occasionally through CMS is an option for static sites.
In some cases, a combination of static and dynamic approaches works best. For instance, we often implement the website front end as a static site deployed through Netlify. If the client also needs a program to manage services (but not the website), we can do that through the dynamic approach. Both codes in this case are on separate servers, and the only commonality is the domain.
Static sites can be easily deployed on platforms like Netlify or GitHub Pages. Since we're only serving static pages, the server requirements are minimal, allowing us to host most of our static sites for free.
In conclusion, while both static and database-powered websites have their merits, at Lucky Media, we often find static websites to be a more secure, manageable, and cost-effective solution. However, the choice between the two should always be dictated by the specific needs and goals of your project.
This article is part of the "Which technologies do we use and why?" series where we explain the technologies that we use daily.
Are you planning a new Statamic project or thinking about migrating your WordPress site to Statamic? Learn more about our expertise as a renowned Statamic development agency.
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At Lucky Media, we offer a range of services including website development, web application development, and mobile apps development. We specialize in Statamic, React Native, Next.js, AI and ML solutions. We also provide staff augmentation and TALL stack development services.
For more insights into our work, check out our case studies on revolutionising lead generation with AI, customized coaching site, healthcare digitization, next-level performance, lead generation and patient journey, WordPress to Statamic migration, and improving user experience. These case studies provide a glimpse into how we tailor our technology choices to meet specific client needs and deliver exceptional results.
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