In web development, what does the term 'front-end' refer to?

The term 'front-end' in web development refers to the client-side interface of a web application or website. This aspect encompasses everything that users interact with directly in their web browsers. It includes the design, layout, and behavior of the graphical elements such as buttons, forms, navigation menus, and overall site aesthetics created using technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

The front-end is crucial because it is what users experience firsthand; it must be visually appealing and user-friendly to create a positive experience. As such, front-end developers focus on ensuring the website or application looks good and functions well on various devices and screen sizes.

In contrast, the other concepts involve different components of web architecture. The server-side architecture pertains to back-end processes, managing server requests and responses. Database management relates to how data is stored, retrieved, and manipulated behind the scenes. Back-end functionality refers to processes that occur on the server side, including data processing and business logic that users do not see directly. Each of these elements works in conjunction with the front-end, but they represent parts of the development that are not visible or directly interacted with by users.