It’s easy to understand why the word web development can be confusing for businesses – but if you don’t know your code from your cookies, at Candy we’re here to help demystify web jargon.

Web development is a multifaceted field, with various specialised areas that cater to different aspects of creating and maintaining websites and web applications. Each type of web development focuses on specific technologies, skills, and objectives – so each caters to a different type of site build and business. In this blog, we’ll explore ten different types of web development, shedding light on the unique characteristics and purposes of each.

Front-End Web Development

Front-end web development, also known as client-side development, is all about creating the user interface and user experience. Front-end developers work on the visual elements of websites and web applications (everything you can see), using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to design and implement the layout, styling, and interactivity that users interact with directly.

Back-End Web Development

Back-end web development, or server-side development, involves building the server, database, and application logic that support the functionality of a website or web app (aspects that are normally hidden from public view). Back-end developers use server-side scripting languages like Python, Ruby, PHP, or Node.js to handle data storage, processing, and user authentication.

Full-Stack Web Development

Full-stack developers (like our team at Candy) are proficient in both front-end and back-end development. They have a comprehensive understanding of how all the components of a web application interact. Full-stack development is about creating end-to-end solutions, making these developers highly versatile in web development projects.


Mobile App Development

Mobile app development is a specialised type of web development focused on creating applications for smartphones and tablets. Developers use languages such as Java, Kotlin, Swift, or React Native to build mobile apps that run on iOS and Android platforms. Click here to learn more about our dedicated mobile app development services:

E-commerce Development

E-commerce development centres on creating online stores and shopping platforms. E-commerce developers integrate secure payment gateways, shopping carts, product catalogues, and order processing systems. They also ensure a seamless and secure online shopping experience for users. Depending on the size and nature of your e-commerce business, ecomm website development can be fairly straightforward or incredibly complex. Check out our e-commerce web build case studies here:

Content Management System (CMS) Development

CMS development involves creating and customising content management systems like WordPress, Drupal, or Joomla. Developers build themes, plugins, and extensions to enhance the functionality and appearance of websites, making it easier for non-technical users to manage content.

Web Security Development

Web security developers focus on protecting websites and web applications from cyber threats and vulnerabilities. They implement security measures like encryption, firewalls, and secure coding practices to safeguard user data and sensitive information.

Progressive Web App (PWA) Development

PWAs are web applications that offer a native app-like experience while running in web browsers. PWA developers use technologies like service workers, responsive design, and caching to create fast, reliable, and offline-capable web apps that work across various devices and platforms.

Web Accessibility Development

Web accessibility developers ensure that websites and web applications are usable by people with disabilities. They follow accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG) to design and develop websites that are navigable, readable, and operable by individuals with different impairments.

Game Development

Web game development involves creating interactive and visually appealing games that run directly in web browsers. Developers use HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, and game development libraries to build games that can be easily accessed and enjoyed by users without the need for downloads or installations.

Website development in Manchester with Candy

Website development encompasses a wide range of specialised fields, each serving a unique purpose in the creation and maintenance of websites and web applications.

Whether you’re interested in creating a captivating user interface, securing sensitive data, or building interactive web games, there’s a type of web development suited to your goals and interests. As technology continues to evolve, these web development fields will continue to adapt and expand, offering exciting opportunities for developers and enhancing the web experiences of users worldwide.

Need dedicated website development support for your business?

Get in touch for a free Discovery Call with our team today: hello@candymarketing.co.uk