960px

960px commonly refers to a fixed page width used in web design, most notably as the basis of the 960 Grid System, a CSS framework that provides a ready-made layout grid. The idea centers on centering a page at a total width of 960 pixels to create predictable line lengths and a modular structure for content.

Origin and design: The 960 Grid System (960gs) was developed in the mid-2000s by Nathan Smith to simplify the creation of aligned, reusable layouts. It offers a fixed, centered container with multiple column configurations, most famously a 12-column version, along with optional gutters that establish consistent visual rhythm across the page.

Structure and usage: A typical 960gs setup uses a 960-pixel-wide container divided into columns. Designers place content by spanning a number of columns and using offsets to control horizontal placement. The framework provides a small set of CSS classes or templates to manage columns, offsets, and gutters, enabling rapid assembly of grid-based layouts with predictable alignment.

Variants and influence: In addition to the common 12-column grid, 960gs has 16- and 24-column variants, among others. The approach influenced other grid systems and contributed to the popularity of grid-based design in the era before widespread responsive frameworks. It also inspired later adaptations and competing grids that aimed to preserve a similar sense of structure at fixed widths.

Criticism and current status: The fixed width of 960px makes adaptation to varying screen sizes awkward without additional responsive rules. As responsive and fluid layouts became standard, fixed-width grids declined in prominence for general use, though they remain cited as historical examples of grid-based design and modular web layout.