What Is A Static Site?

A static website is a collection of HTML files designed to deliver content to users. Using a static site builder, you can quickly and affordably create a website. To manage and publish your digital content easily, it is important to use a Content Management System (CMS).

What Is A Static Website?

A static website relies on HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to provide content to visitors. Unlike dynamic websites, a static site doesn’t require any server-side processing and consists solely of HTML files. This makes static websites simple to develop, maintain, and host, which is ideal for individuals with little technical expertise.

Creating a static site is a cost-effective and efficient way to launch your online presence. Since there’s no need for complex server-side scripting, static websites are secure and can be hosted on almost any web service. Even if you’ve never built a website, using a static site builder makes it possible to create one quickly to represent your business online.

In the early days of web development, building a site meant writing simple HTML files with no server-side processes. Over time, as websites grew more complex, updating each page became cumbersome. This led to the development of Content Management Systems.

While CMSs offer convenience, they can come with downsides. They often require server-side processing, which can slow down your site. Additionally, CMS platforms can be rigid, making it difficult for users to fully customise their sites. This is where Static Site Generators (SSGs) come in.

What Are Static Site Generators (SSGs)?

A Static Site Generator is a tool that bridges the gap between the control offered by a static site and the convenience of a CMS. It lets users build websites using templates and CMS-like features, but also allows for greater customisation through coding.

Static site generators pre-build all the possible pages for your website, instead of generating them dynamically when users visit. This results in faster load times and a smoother user experience. SSGs offer the best of both worlds: they combine the efficiency of static sites with the flexibility of CMSs.

How To Use A Static Site Generator

Building a website with an SSG is straightforward once you understand the process:

• Choose a Static Site Generator

First, select the SSG that suits your needs. Popular options include Jekyll, Hugo, and Gridsome.

• Install the Generator

Download and install the SSG on your computer or server. Follow the installation instructions provided by the generator.

• Set Up Your Template & Theme

After installation, choose a template or theme for your site. Customise the layout, colours, and other design elements. Many SSGs come with default templates to help you get started.

• Add Content

With your template in place, begin adding content. You can write blog posts in markdown format, upload images, and add videos. Keep track of changes to easily revert if needed.

• Generate Pages

Once content is added, use the SSG to generate your website’s pages. Follow the specific instructions provided by your chosen generator to complete this step.

• Deploy the Website

After generating your pages, you can upload them to your hosting provider, such as Amazon Web Services. Then, connect your domain name, and your site will be live.

Advantages Of Static Site Generators

• Improved Performance

Unlike CMSs that require server-side processing, static sites are pre-rendered and served as static HTML files, ensuring faster load times. This improves user experience and helps prevent revenue loss due to slow sites.

• Complete Flexibility

While CMSs are easy to use, they often limit customisation. Static site generators give you full control, allowing you to directly code and adjust any aspect of your website.

• Better Security

Since static sites don’t rely on server-side processing, they are less vulnerable to malicious attacks. Static sites are easier to audit and monitor for security risks.

• Lower Costs

Hosting static sites tends to be cheaper since they don’t require complex databases or specialized infrastructure. Plus, moving to a new hosting provider is easy, as you only need to upload simple HTML files.

Are Static Websites Right For Your Business?

Static websites provide an excellent option for businesses looking for a fast, secure, and customisable online presence. Using an SSG to create a website is cost-effective, and you can easily build it with minimal coding knowledge.

If you prefer to have more control over the design, static site generators offer the flexibility to do so. Plus, maintaining a static site is easy because updates can be applied across all pages automatically.

Creating your own static website and improving your digital marketing can greatly benefit from working with experts.

At WBTI, we have the expertise to guide you through the design, development, and marketing phases of your online project. Let us help you build a memorable and effective website.