¿Qué es el Server Side Render?

What is client-side rendering and server-side rendering?

With the growth of web applications, it is crucial to understand how rendering strategies affect efficiency and user experience. Two such strategies are client-side rendering (Client-side Render) and server-side rendering (Server-side Render). Both techniques have advantages and disadvantages that must be considered depending on the needs of the application.

How does client-side rendering work?

In client-side rendering, all the application logic and necessary files, such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, are first downloaded to the user's browser, also known as "the client".

1. Initial request: The browser requests the web application from the server.
2. File download: The server sends the HTML file, followed by the index.js file, which is the entry point for the application.
3. Execution: The index.js file is executed in the browser, triggering frameworks such as React, which build the DOM tree, generating interactivity.

During these stages, the user sees a blank screen until React completes its task, which can negatively affect the user experience due to the lack of immediate visual feedback.

How does server-side rendering work?

Server-side rendering attempts to mitigate the problems of client-side rendering by speeding up the loading of the main content visible to the user.

1. Fast initial response: The client requests an HTML file from the server. This file is generated and sent by the server as a "template" that is quickly drawn in the browser.
2. Content display: The browser already displays content before the JavaScript and CSS files have finished downloading.
3. Interactivity: Once the JavaScript files are ready, frameworks such as React are executed, allowing user interaction.

This approach allows a preview of the application to load quickly, improving the perception of speed and improving SEO, especially useful in applications with multiple paths.

When should server-side rendering be used?

Choosing the right rendering technique depends on several factors. Server-side rendering is an excellent choice when:

• SEO is essential: It is vital for applications that need to be indexed efficiently by search engines.
• Optimal performance: Facilitates faster load speeds, presenting content sooner than client-based applications.
• Security: Provides an additional level of security by reducing the complete dependency on JavaScript until it executes in the browser.
• Multi-pathed applications: Enhances the experience, particularly when users are expected to quickly switch between different views/modalities.

In summary, a clear understanding of the differences between these two rendering methods, as well as their practical application, is key to optimizing the efficiency of our web applications. Delving deeper into the subject will allow us to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each approach, guiding the design of our web solutions towards success.