Web development is the backbone of the modern internet, powering everything from simple websites to complex web applications. It involves the creation, design, and maintenance of websites and web-based platforms, using a combination of programming languages, frameworks, and tools to deliver seamless user experiences.

There are two main areas in web development: front-end and back-end. Front-end development focuses on what users see and interact with, including layouts, buttons, navigation, and visual design. Technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript are used to build dynamic and responsive user interfaces. On the other hand, back-end development involves the server, databases, and application logic. It ensures data is stored, retrieved, and processed correctly, using languages like PHP, Python, Node.js, and frameworks like Laravel or Django.