ll those responses you get in less than a minute, you know how does that happen?

That is the result of developers' skills at the server-side!

Yes, all that happens on the server-side.

Server-side coding is done to present and share data with the client whenever asked or needed. You not only share but also tailor content as per the needs of different individuals.

Sites pick the most relevant content from the server based on user preferences and then take it ahead to them. The information also gets stored on the server, which makes later stages easier for users.

You can build an application with a strong server-side easily using various suitable languages such as PHP, Python, Ruby, etc. All you need to do is reach out to a developer skilled with the language you wish to use, such as hire a PHP coder, a Python developer, etc. and you are then ready to get started!

We can't agree more on the power and importance of server-side programming.

But that's not all!

There's a lot more about this side of programming whose basics need to be cleared out.

Therefore, we will target the primary and most relevant information concerning server-side programming, in this article.

Let's begin the voyage!

What is Meant by server-side website programming? 

The servers are meant to communicate with web browsers using HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) to take the client's request, process it, and share the appropriate data back.  

When the client clicks on a link on the website or page or runs a search request, another request asking for data is sent through HTTP. This request is sent to the targeted or in charge server. The client then gets the result in a few seconds. The response could be of any form, such as an image, audio, video, HTML page, etc.

What's the Difference Between Server-Side and Client-Side Programming? 

The server-side programming is about generating responses and returning them to the browser as per the client's request. The tasks such as validating submitted requests, storing information on the database, and sending correct data to the client through the web browser are associated with server-side coding.  

On the other hand, the code that runs in the browser is the client-side coding. It is meant to show generated responses and enhance the appearance and behavior of a rendered web page for the client.

Tasks like navigation, layout creation, styling UI components, validation, etc. are concerned with the client-side coding.

Narrowing the same down, the major considerable points are:

Both are concerned with different purposes

Except for JavaScript, both use different languages.

Both have different operating system environments to run under

What Can be achieved With Server-Side Programming?

We have just explored the basics up till now. There is a lot that can be done using server-side programming. Let's explore the details:

Storing and delivering information - Server-side programming allows us to store data and then return it in fascinating forms such as images, PDFs, etc. It just doesn't deliver the data back and interprets the client's preferences to share additional relevant information.

Access to Content - With server-side coding, you can tell the site to limit access to authorized users. This would allow sharing only the information that a user has permission to see.  

Session information - The developers can use sessions using the server to store a current user's information

Notifications - It also enables you to send either general or user-specific notifications by means of email, SMS, etc.

Data Analysis - Server-side programming is used to respond to the client based on various interpretations, such as behavior, frequency, etc.

Server-Side Programming Languages

There are many server-side programming languages. Here we are with the top 5.

PHP 

PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor), topping our list, is an open-source server-side scripting language. It allows you to make dynamic and interactive websites and web applications. All required to do is look for expert PHP developers for hire and get on with the development of your project.  

It also powers half of the Internet, including Facebook, Yahoo, and WordPress.

Key Features: 

• Free of cost platform 
• Easy in terms of usability
• Integration with database systems possible
• Secured and stable platform
• Robust library support

Python 

Python came into existence in 1989. It is ideal for server-side development.  Various Python frameworks such as Django, Flask, etc. come inbuilt with some incredible features that power your development process and make it easier.  

Key Features: 

• Clear structure and short syntax. 
• Highly preferred in today's era
• Accessible from all operating system
• Compatible with third-party software
• Fast processing speed

JavaScript 

JavaScript is like the most evergreen language. It never loses its popularity. With JavaScript in software, you don't need any other software but just a web browser and text editor. It can do both server-side and client-side development.  

Key Features: 

• Easy learning curve
• Can run on any OS with a supporting and suitable browser
• Extremely versatile and simple
• A good number of frameworks available
• Popularity and strong community

Ruby 

Ruby is a robust server-side language. With much productivity, it allows the developers to enjoy coding. The syntax is somewhat the same as Python, and codes are concise. One of its most powerful web-development frameworks is known as Ruby on Rails. 

Key Features: 

• The learning curve is simple
• Vast community
• Object-oriented
• Ruby on Rails framework is preferred for being a fast web-development tool

Java 

Java first arrived in 1995 and managed to become one of the most popular languages by the time. Millions of developers globally are now using it. What's remarkable about it is that it can compile source code to bytecode. 

Key Features:

• Object-oriented programming language
• IDEs such as Netbeans, Eclipse, etc. available for Java
• Safe and secure
• Compatible with all platforms
• Clear syntax and dynamic language

Conclusion  

Server-side programming holds a great significance in the development of a website, web app, or application. 

The need is just to do it wisely! 

Besides the top 5 that we have mentioned above, you have the opportunity to explore many other server-side languages. There is an abundance of them. Just make sure to go with the right choice, such as hire PHP developers, Python, or Java developers who are skilled and experienced.  

The journey post these steps with their assistance becomes more comfortable!