If you're planning to build a website, you may have encountered the ongoing debate between WordPress and static websites / static site generators. While WordPress has been the go-to choice for years (and remains excellent for many projects), static websites have gained significant popularity for good reasons. Let's explore why many developers and businesses are choosing static site generators and what makes them such a great option.
Built-in Security Advantages
Security is where static websites really shine. Think of them as similar to a simple document rather than a complex application – there's simply less that can go wrong. Unlike WordPress sites that need databases and plugins to function, static websites are built with basic HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files that go straight to your visitors' browsers. This simplicity means there's no database for attackers to target, no plugins that could have security holes, and usually no sensitive data stored on the server. The result? A naturally secure website that needs minimal security maintenance.
Sustainable Long-Term Solution
One of the best things about static websites is how well they stand the test of time. They're built on the fundamental technologies of the web – the same ones that have been reliably working for decades. Even when using modern static site generators to build these sites, the result is still simple and durable. Unlike WordPress sites that might break when a plugin becomes outdated or conflicts with an update, static websites tend to just keep working. This reliability means less time spent on maintenance and more time focused on your actual content and business.
Superior Performance
Speed matters on the web, and static websites have a natural advantage here. They deliver content directly to users with no need to generate pages on the fly or query databases. Modern static site generators automatically handle many performance optimizations that you'd have to configure manually on WordPress – things like optimising images, minimising code, and delivering files efficiently. They also work beautifully with content delivery networks (CDNs), ensuring your site loads quickly for visitors anywhere in the world.
Cost-Effective Operation
When it comes to keeping costs down, static websites often have the edge, especially for straightforward sites. You don't need powerful servers or complex hosting setups since you're just serving simple files. This means hosting costs are typically lower than with WordPress, and your site can handle sudden traffic spikes without breaking a sweat. As your site grows, you won't need to keep upgrading your hosting plan – static sites are naturally good at handling high traffic without requiring additional resources.
Enhanced SEO Capabilities
Static websites make it easier to achieve good search engine rankings. Search engines love them because they're straightforward to understand and typically very fast – both key factors in SEO. The simple code structure means search engines can easily find and index your content. You have direct control over all the important SEO elements with no need to rely on plugins, and the naturally fast loading times give you a head start in search rankings.
The way we manage content on static websites has come a long way. Modern static site generators are often coupled with a headless CMS that make updating content almost as easy as WordPress. Whether you're writing blog posts, updating product information, or managing other content, these tools make it straightforward while keeping all the benefits of a static site.
Deploying and hosting static websites is remarkably straightforward. Since they're just a collection of files, you can host them almost anywhere, and many platforms offer generous free hosting for static sites. The deployment process can be automated, making updates simple. This simplicity means less can go wrong when updating your site, and you're less likely to experience downtime.
Keeping a static website secure is much simpler than maintaining a WordPress site. Without databases or dynamic components to worry about, you can focus on just keeping your content up to date. You won't need to constantly monitor for security updates or worry about plugin vulnerabilities. This peace of mind is valuable for any business or organisation that wants to maintain a secure web presence without dedicating excessive resources to security maintenance.
Making the Choice
While WordPress is still a great choice for many projects, in many case, static websites offer advantages that make them worth considering. The key is thinking about what you really need from your website. If you want something fast, secure, and easy to maintain, a static website might be perfect for you. Consider not just what you need today, but what will serve you best in the long run.
Remember, choosing between a static website and WordPress isn't about following trends – it's about finding the right tool for your specific needs. Static websites excel at providing a stable and efficient foundation for many types of web projects, and they're becoming an increasingly popular choice for good reason.