The world of web development can seem complex and intimidating, but it all starts with a basic understanding of the web and how it works. In this first part of our 8-part series, we will cover the basics of web development, including the components of the web, how browsers play a role, and the fundamental concepts of HTTP and URLs.
A. Overview of the web and its components
The web is a global network of interconnected computers and servers that allow us to access and exchange information online. It consists of various components, including websites, servers, web browsers, and the Internet itself.
Websites are the pages and applications we interact with on the web, while servers are the computers that store and manage the information that makes up these websites. Web browsers, such as Google Chrome, Firefox, and Safari, are the tools we use to access and view websites.
B. How browsers work and their role in web development
Browsers play a crucial role in web development. They are responsible for interpreting the HTML, CSS, and JavaScript code that makes up a website and rendering it into the final visual display that we see on our screens.
When you type in a website's URL and hit enter, the browser sends a request to the server hosting the website, asking for the necessary files to render the page. The server then sends back the HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files, which the browser uses to build the page and display it to you.
C. Basic concepts of HTTP and URLs
HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) is the language used to communicate between browsers and servers on the web. It allows for the transfer of information and resources between the two.
URLs (Uniform Resource Locators) are the addresses that identify specific resources on the web. They consist of a protocol (such as HTTP), a domain name (such as
), and a path (such as /search). When you type in a URL and hit enter, the browser uses HTTP to communicate with the server and retrieve the desired resource.
D. Introduction to web development tools
Web development requires the use of various tools, such as text editors, browsers, and development frameworks. Text editors, such as Sublime Text or Visual Studio Code, are used to write and edit the HTML, CSS, and JavaScript code that makes up a website.
Browsers, as mentioned earlier, are used to view and test websites during development. Development frameworks, such as React and Angular, provide a structure and set of tools for building complex web applications.
In conclusion, understanding the basic components of the web, how browsers work, and the fundamental concepts of HTTP and URLs is essential to becoming a successful web developer. In the next part of our series, we will dive into HTML, CSS, and Javascript, and see how they work together to build the structure and styling of a website.