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Client-Side Rendering

A rendering method where the browser downloads a minimal HTML file and uses JavaScript to render the content and handle navigation.

AbbreviationCSR
Categoryweb

Overview

In CSR, the server sends a nearly empty HTML file with a script tag. The browser then downloads the JavaScript, which fetches data from an API and builds the entire user interface on the fly. This is the traditional way Single Page Applications (SPAs) work.

Benefits

  • Rich Interactivity: Smooth transitions and complex UI states.
  • Reduced Server Load: The client does the rendering work.
  • Fast Subsequent Loads: Only data is fetched after the initial load.

Drawbacks

  • Slow Initial Load: Users must wait for the JS to download and execute.
  • SEO Challenges: Search engines may struggle to index content that isn't in the initial HTML.

Related Terms

Hydration