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Aleix Soler

2024

Backend, Frontend, or Full Stack? What About SPA vs. MPA?

Find out what kind of developer you are and whether SPA or MPA is the best choice for your projects! Not every site needs to be an SPA!

In the job search within the field of web development, it is common to see a growing demand for Full Stack developers. But what exactly are these professionals? In this article, we will provide you with a detailed explanation.

Additionally, there is a current trend in the use of SPA frameworks. However, they are often used without considering the best options, and in some cases, a hybrid approach or an MPA might be more suitable. In this article, we will also explain what MPAs and SPAs are, when it is appropriate to use one or the other, and what intermediate alternatives exist.

Types of Developers

Backend and Frontend Developer

A backend developer is a software developer who focuses on the server-side and database of an application or website. They work with languages such as Python, Java, PHP, Ruby, among others, and with databases like MySQL, PostgreSQL, or MongoDB to create and maintain the logic and functionality of the application.

On the other hand, a frontend developer focuses on the visible part of an application, that is, the user interface. They work with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, as well as frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js to shape user interaction and experience.

In summary, while the backend developer focuses on logic and data access, the frontend developer works on user experience and the appearance of the application.

Full Stack Developer

A Full Stack developer is a professional who has knowledge and skills in all layers of a software system, from the frontend (user interface) to the backend (server and database), including DevOps aspects in many cases. This means they can participate in all stages of application development.

It is important to note that no developer can be an expert in all technologies, as software development is a broad and diverse field. However, there are different types of Full Stack developers depending on their specialization:

  1. Full Stack Web Developer: Focuses on web technologies, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, frontend frameworks (React, Angular, etc.), and backend frameworks (Django, Laravel, Express.js, etc.).
  2. Full Stack Mobile Developer: Works on mobile applications using technologies like React Native or Flutter and on connecting with backend services.
  3. Full Stack DevOps Developer: Combines application development with infrastructure management, automation, CI/CD, containers (Docker), and orchestration (Kubernetes).
  4. Full Stack Data Developer: Focuses on data management and processing, working on both database implementation and its integration with applications.

These are just a few examples, but a Full Stack developer can have many other specializations depending on the technologies they master.

Types of Web Applications

SPA (Single Page Application)

An SPA is a web application that operates on a single page and provides a smoother user experience by avoiding full page reloads. In an SPA, most interaction and navigation happen via JavaScript, dynamically loading data through APIs without requiring a full page refresh.

MPA (Multi Page Application)

The opposite of an SPA is an MPA, a traditional web application where each user action generates a new HTTP request to the server and a full page reload. While it may be less smooth than an SPA, it is easier to optimize for search engines and is generally more accessible.

Hybrid Applications

As web technologies have evolved, intermediate solutions have emerged that combine the benefits of SPA and MPA. For example:

  • Isomorphic Apps (Universal Apps): Use server-side rendering (SSR) to improve SEO and initial load speed but act as an SPA once loaded.
  • Progressive Web Apps (PWA): Leverage modern browser features to provide a native-like experience without requiring a conventional installation.

Choosing Between MPA, SPA, and Hybrid Applications

The main differences between these options are:

  • Page Loading: MPAs require full reloads, while SPAs dynamically load data. Hybrid applications try to combine the advantages of both.
  • User Experience: SPAs tend to be smoother but may have accessibility and SEO issues. MPAs are more robust in these aspects, and hybrid applications try to strike a balance.
  • Development and Maintenance: MPAs are easier to develop and maintain for small projects. SPAs can be more complex, and hybrid applications require tools like Next.js or Nuxt.js to manage SSR and CSR.

Summary

In summary, an SPA is a single-page web application that provides a smoother experience, an MPA is a traditional application with full reloads, and hybrid applications attempt to combine the benefits of both technologies.

Personally, I prefer to use SPAs for interactive and dynamic applications, while MPAs are more suitable for blogs, e-commerce, and projects that require SEO optimization. Hybrid applications are a great option for achieving optimal performance without sacrificing accessibility and indexability.