How Websites Work
When you visit a website, your browser communicates with a web server through the internet. The server receives your request, processes it, and sends the required content back to your browser.
The Basic Process
- You enter a website address (URL) into your browser.
- The browser sends a request to the web server.
- The server receives and processes the request.
- The server sends the website files or data back.
- Your browser displays the website on your screen.
Client and Server
The client is usually your web browser, such as Chrome, Firefox, or Edge.
The server is the computer or system where the website and its data are hosted.
Example
When you visit an online student portal, your browser requests the page from the server. The server may communicate with a database to retrieve your information and then sends the result back to your browser.
Key Terms
- Browser: Software used to access websites.
- URL: The address of a website or web page.
- Web Server: A system that stores and serves website content.
- HTTP/HTTPS: Protocols used for communication between browsers and servers.
- Database: Stores information used by web applications.
Summary
A website works through communication between the client, server, and, in many dynamic websites, a database.