browserbacked

Browserbacked is a term used in web development to describe an architectural approach in which the browser assumes primary responsibility for data storage and often for many application functions, with the server acting mainly as a data source, authentication provider, or services layer. In this model, much of the state and logic resides in the client, and the browser stores data locally using technologies such as IndexedDB, LocalStorage, and Cache API. Synchronization with the server occurs when a connection is available, forming an offline- or online-first workflow.

Key characteristics commonly associated with browserbacked systems include client-side rendering of the user interface, reliance on the browser for persistence and some computation, and a data sync layer that reconciles local changes with a central backend. Variants range from fully browser-backed applications to hybrid setups where the server still handles critical operations or trusted data, while the client maintains a significant portion of the state.

Advantages of this approach can include responsive user interfaces, improved offline capability, reduced latency for data access, and decoupled server load. Potential drawbacks involve challenges around data consistency and conflict resolution across devices, security and privacy concerns when sensitive data is stored on the client, storage limits, and increased complexity in testing and data migration. Successful browserbacked designs often rely on robust synchronization strategies, careful security controls, and clear boundaries between client and server responsibilities.

The term is a relatively new and informal label, not universally standardized. It is commonly discussed in the context of offline-first and progressive web app design, client-side state management, and architectures that emphasize the browser as a primary data steward. See also offline-first, progressive web apps, IndexedDB.