Web Development Advanced

What is WebAssembly (Wasm)?

A binary instruction format that enables near-native performance execution of code in web browsers alongside JavaScript.

WebAssembly runs compiled code (from C, C++, Rust, Go) in browsers at near-native speed. Unlike JavaScript, Wasm is a low-level binary format that browsers execute efficiently. It complements JavaScript rather than replacing it.

Use cases include gaming engines, image/video processing, CAD applications, scientific simulations, and running existing C/C++ libraries in browsers. WASI extends Wasm beyond browsers to server-side and edge computing.

Learn More About This Topic

JavaScript ES6+ Modern Features

Related reading

JavaScript Fundamentals

Related reading

Laravel Framework Fundamentals

Related reading

Related Terms

Server-Sent Events

A server push technology that enables a server to send real-time updates to a browser over a single HTTP connection.

Content Negotiation

An HTTP mechanism where client and server agree on the best representation of a resource based on format, language, or encoding preferences.

Progressive Web App (PWA)

A web application that uses modern web capabilities to deliver app-like experiences with offline support and push notifications.

An automatic OPTIONS request sent by browsers before certain cross-origin requests to check if the actual request is permitted.

Web Accessibility (a11y)

The practice of designing websites that can be used by people with disabilities, following WCAG guidelines.

A communication protocol that enables full-duplex, real-time data exchange between a browser and server over a single connection.

View All Web Development Terms →