The process of interpreting content such as text, graphics, or interactivity in web development is referred to as rendering. The two major ones are Server-Side Rendering (SSR) and Client-Side Rendering (CSR). When looking to improve a web resource, a developer really has to lean on the differences between these approaches.
What is Server Side Rendering (SSR)?
Server-side rendering, or SSR, is a method in which the server completes all the operations of creating a web page in HTML format, and the ready web page is sent to be displayed on the client-side browser. This is how it has worked since the creation of the Internet. Typically, the server does the processes automatically: it collects the data or templates needed to create a webpage, creates the page, and sends it to the browser.
Advantages of SSR
Speedy First Load Time: Considering that a pre-rendered page is waiting to be sent out, users appreciate quicker load time, especially during their first visit to a page.
SEO Carnivation: Search engines can effectively communicate and index the materials as the HTML is fully present.
Uniformity: Since rendering is done on the server, SSR ensures that all users view the pages the same way, regardless of their device.
Disadvantages of SSR
Server Load—This particularly applies to the backend systems and servers, which have to serve each request and, therefore, bear the entire system’s weight. This could lead to the server being overwhelmed with requests during peak times.
Latency—This is more relevant to users situated far from the server, as latency narrows the time required to receive the rendered page.
What is Client Side Rendering (CSR)?
Client-side rendering, or CSR, is a more advanced style in which the browser of the client’s computer renders web pages. The core idea is to allow the server to send a lightweight HTML file with a Javascript bundle, which can then be utilized by the client’s computer to retrieve data and render web pages on the fly.
Advantages of CSR
Reduced Server Load—By implementing CSR, the server exposes static files to the users, thereby relieving the server from unnecessary workload.
Dynamic Interactions—With CSR, user interaction becomes extraordinarily dynamic, as there is no need to keep refreshing the pages to make certain transformations.
Scalability—Because the server only serves static files, scaling the solution becomes less complex, especially for systems with many peaks in traffic.
Disadvantages of CSR
Slower Initial Load – Initial load will always be slow as the first step involves downloading and executing JS before rendering a page.
SEO Challenges—Search engines may have trouble indexing Javascript because it has to be rendered first by the search engines to ‘see’ the content.
Compatibility Issues: JavaScript Content may not be adequately displayed for users with older versions of browsers or users who have disabled it.
SSR vs CSR: Which is Better Out There?
It all comes down to the goal of your project when deciding to implement either SSR or CSR. If your focus is on marketing and fast first paint, then you might be right to use SSR. While if your application is highly responsive, then CSR might suit you.
To wrap up, both SSR and CSR have strengths and weaknesses. By considering these aspects, developers can determine the best course of action for the project based on their and their users’ requirements.
Wildnet Technologies is a leading Design and Development Company in India that has helped 4,100+ clients complete their 8,000+ development projects, whether website, app, or custom software development.
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Faq
Could you explain the difference between SSR and CSR?
In SSR, the web page is sent along with all its content, which means that the browser does not need to load anything further. In contrast, in CSR, a JavaScript file is delivered, which describes how the page will be rendered and displayed in the web browser.
Which is faster: server-side rendering or client-side rendering?
Because the HTML is already created on the server and the only requirement is that the page be loaded in the browser, SSR is the fastest method. In the case of CSR, once the page is loaded, the user can interact very quickly since there will be no lag as the page interacts directly with the browser.
Which rendering method is better for search engine optimization?
Rendering with the server is without a doubt the better choice when dealing with any site. This is because, with a single server, the HTML content will be SEO optimized. For CSR to be indexed properly, many additional configurations have to be applied, including a higher verbose index.
What are the advantages of client-side rendering?
End-user enablement provides a better experience, allowing the page to be more interactive alongside a lower server intensity. This also allows for offline use and progressive web pages.
How do I select between server-side rendering and client-side rendering?
The needs of your project determine what rendering type to use. For example, if a lot of SEO is needed alongside a lot of content, SSR is the way to go, whereas for more simple, one-page sites, CSR would be easier and perform better.
