nonJavaScript

nonJavaScript refers to approaches in web development that do not rely on client-side JavaScript for essential functionality. It includes HTML for structure, CSS for presentation and basic interactivity, and server-side languages that generate content before it reaches the browser. The concept is often discussed in the context of progressive enhancement, accessibility, and performance.

WebAssembly enables languages like C, C++, and Rust to run in the browser, offering near-native performance for compute-intensive tasks. It is usually used alongside JavaScript, which acts as glue and UI logic, rather than as a complete replacement.

CSS provides interactive capabilities beyond styling, including animations, transitions, and responsive layouts. CSS-only patterns and selectors such as :target or :focus-within can reduce reliance on JavaScript for certain interactions.

Server-side rendering and non-JS clients deliver HTML from the server using languages such as PHP, Python, Ruby, Java, or static site generators. These approaches yield fast initial rendering and may improve accessibility when JavaScript is limited.

The term is contextual; many sites blend nonJavaScript and JavaScript. Trade-offs include reduced interactivity, potential SEO considerations, and greater demands on the server or build tooling.

In sum, nonJavaScript describes approaches that emphasize alternatives to client-side JavaScript, including WebAssembly, CSS-driven interactivity, or server-rendered content, while acknowledging that JavaScript remains central in modern web development.