Hand-coded static websites vs dynamic websites (like WordPress, Wix, etc.)

Important Takeaways:

• Compared to page builders like WordPress, static websites created from scratch can load up to ten times faster. The majority of visitors will abandon your site if it takes longer than three seconds to load, costing you potential clients.

• Google uses mobile performance to rank webpages. Many page builders have poor mobile optimization, which results in slower loading times and worse rankings.

• Websites that are hand-coded are designed with mobile devices in mind, which guarantees optimal performance across all platforms, quicker load times, and higher Google ranks.

• WordPress requires regular upgrades to remain secure because it is prone to security flaws. On the other hand, because of their simplicity and lack of vulnerable points of access, hand-coded static websites are intrinsically more safe.

What's the Difference Between Static and Dynamic Websites?

Websites are classified as either static or dynamic in the context of web development. Only the fundamental web technologies HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are used in a static website. Databases, content management systems, and dynamic features that adapt to user input are absent. Rather than waiting for a server to create the page, the browser loads the same material instantly for each visitor.

Static sites can be created with a static site generator or by hand-coding, which is my area of expertise. They are much faster and more secure than their dynamic counterparts because they don't need additional processing.

Databases and server-side languages are used by dynamic websites, like those created using Squarespace, Wix, or WordPress, to generate pages in real time. The server pulls the requested content from a database, puts it together, and then delivers it to the user's browser rather than the browser loading a pre-made page. Your website may become slower as a result of this additional processing, and it may become more susceptible to hacking attempts and malware.

This method is used by well-known platforms like Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress, which make it simple for people to construct websites. In contrast to the hand-coded static websites I create, dynamic websites have a number of serious disadvantages.

Why Are Websites That Are Static Faster?

Site speed is one of the most crucial elements for achieving a high Google ranking, particularly on mobile devices. Because the server must pull information from a database, assemble the page, and transmit it to the browser, dynamic websites take longer to load. A WordPress site gets slower the more plugins and other features it has.

According to research, most consumers will abandon a website before they have had a chance to view your content if it takes more than three seconds to load. Therefore, you're probably losing potential clients if your WordPress or Wix website is slow.

However, because everything is pre-built, a hand-coded static website loads up to ten times faster than a dynamic one. The page loads immediately in the browser, eliminating the need for a server to compile it. It is not slowed down by excessive plugins, superfluous code, or databases.

A dynamic website can be compared to attempting to prepare a dish from scratch each time a customer places an order. A static website is similar to having a prepared dish that is ready to eat right away. Which is quicker? Without a doubt, the static site.

Security: The Benefits of Static Websites

Because dynamic websites depend on databases and backend systems, hackers target them frequently. Attackers frequently cause security breaches by taking advantage of flaws in server setups, out-of-date software, and WordPress plugins.

Conversely, static websites lack backend systems and databases that could be compromised. There is nothing for attackers to take advantage of because there is nothing actively processing data. Your website is still secure and nearly impenetrable.

The quantity of third-party plugins needed to add features is one of WordPress's main drawbacks. If you don't update them frequently, security flaws appear and your website becomes vulnerable. Because static sites don't need plugins, this problem is completely resolved.

Imagine contrasting a classic log house with a state-of-the-art smart home equipped with internet-connected locks. The smart home's locks can be remotely disabled by a hacker, but a basic deadbolt keeps the lodge safe. That is a static website's security benefit.

How About Optimization for Mobile Devices?

Websites are ranked by Google according on how effectively they function on mobile devices. By default, the majority of page builders, such as WordPress and Wix, are not mobile-friendly. They slow down performance by loading extra files, scripts, and bloated code.

My websites are designed with mobile devices in mind. This indicates that the website was created with mobile devices in mind, making sure it loads as fast and effectively as feasible. I then enlarge it to fit larger screens, such as those found on tablets and PCs. This approach yields:

• quicker load times for mobile devices

• Improved user experience

• Improved Google ranks

Page builders, on the other hand, aim to make things smaller for mobile after designing for desktop. This results in poor user experience, sluggish performance, and layout problems.

The Drawbacks of Page Builders and WordPress

Without understanding how to code, creating a website is simple using Squarespace, Wix, and WordPress. However, there is a price for convenience of use:

• Slow load times brought on by too many plugins and scripts

• Security flaws in out-of-date software

• Limited personalization unless you are a programmer

• Reduced Google rankings due to inadequate mobile optimization

• Regular upgrades are necessary to avoid crashes and security problems.

These issues are not an issue with a static website that is hand-coded. It is designed from the ground up to be quick, safe, and efficient.

Why Spend Money on a Custom Website?

Because they appear to be less expensive up front, page builders are a popular choice for enterprises. But is it truly costing you money if a slow, poorly optimized website costs you Google rankings, leads, and customers?

It costs money to create a custom static website that is hand-coded. It is profitable by:

• Speedier load times to raise Google rankings

• Keeping visitors on your website rather than having them leave because of slow speeds

• Getting rid of third-party plugin security risks

• Not using templates to create a genuinely original design

The greatest long-term option for business owners that recognize the importance of SEO, security, and performance is a static website.

FInal Thoughts:

Your needs will determine whether you select a static or dynamic website. A hand-coded static website is the best option if you require a straightforward, safe, and blazingly fast website. You could be better off with a dynamic website like WordPress if you need a database, user accounts, or an online store.

Ultimately, your website represents an investment. A unique hand-coded static website is the ideal option if you want faster performance, higher Google ranks, and the assurance that your site won't be hacked.

Let's discuss if you're prepared to advance your website!