Single-page application

A single-page application (SPA) is a web application with a single web page.

Description

In SPA, the user navigates through content much like navigating from one web page to another, but in fact the browser remains on a single page.

In an SPA, all of the necessary code -- HTML, JavaScript, and CSS -- is either retrieved with a single page load, or added dynamically (via JavaScript).

The page loads once, the web application is ready to use, with additional code added dynamically as needed.

The page does not reload at any point in the process, nor does control transfer to another page.

URL in address bar

The URL in the browser address bar may change. This is done with JavaScript.

Process

Interaction with the single page application typically involves dynamic communication with a web server.

• The application makes a request to the server (typically because of a user action, or a timer)
• The server responds with some data
• The web application uses this data to update the browser

User perception of separate pages

Modern web technologies -- such as those included in the HTML5 pushState() API -- can help provide the perception and navigability of separate logical pages in the application.

Functions

Key functions of single-page applications:

• Communication with the server
• Data binding
• Templating system
• Layout and partials
• Routing

See also

• AngularJS
• Application programming interface
• Backbone.js
• Dynamic web page
• Dynamic web site
• Web application

External links

• Single-page application @ Wikipedia
• Single page apps in depth