Webmaster vs. Web Developer: What Are the Differences?
Learn about the two careers and review some of the similarities and differences between them.
A webmaster is responsible for the overall maintenance and management of a website, while a web developer focuses on creating and coding the website itself. Both roles are important in ensuring a website is functional and appealing to users. In this article, we compare and contrast the job titles webmaster and web developer, including job duties, skills and education requirements.
What is a Webmaster?
Webmasters are responsible for the overall maintenance and upkeep of a website. This can include tasks such as ensuring that all website content is up-to-date and accurate, fixing any broken links or errors, and adding new content as needed. Webmasters may also be responsible for managing website security and handling any technical issues that may arise. In some cases, webmasters may also be responsible for designing and developing new website features or overseeing the website development process.
What is a Web Developer?
Web Developers design, build and maintain websites. They work with clients to understand their needs and create a plan for the website. They then design the website layout and add content, images and other features. Web Developers also test the site to make sure it is functioning properly. They may also be responsible for maintaining and updating the website as new content or features are added.
Webmaster vs. Web Developer
Here are the main differences between a webmaster and a web developer.
Job Duties
Webmasters and web developers share some job duties, but there are differences between the two roles. Webmasters have several responsibilities related to maintaining a website, such as ensuring it’s secure and that it runs smoothly for users. They may also be responsible for updating a site or adding new features.
Web developers create websites from scratch, using their expertise in coding languages and web design principles to build sites that meet the needs of their clients. They may also update existing sites with new features or redesign them completely.
Job Requirements
Webmasters typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Some webmasters also have a master’s degree, which can help them qualify for more advanced positions. Many webmasters start their careers as web developers before moving into management roles.
Web developers usually only need a bachelor’s degree to enter the field. However, some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree in computer science or a related field. Additionally, many web developers pursue certifications to show they have the skills needed to perform their job duties. For example, the Certified Internet Webmaster (CIW) certification is offered by the CIW Consortium and teaches web professionals how to design and develop websites.
Work Environment
Webmasters and web developers both work in an office environment, but their specific duties can differ depending on the company. Webmasters often work for companies that have a large online presence, such as e-commerce sites or social media platforms. They may also work for marketing agencies where they manage multiple clients’ websites.
Web developers typically work for software development firms or technology companies. They may also work for larger companies that need to create custom applications for their business needs.
Skills
Both webmasters and web developers need to have a strong understanding of HTML, CSS and JavaScript. However, web developers tend to use more complex programming languages, such as PHP, Ruby on Rails and Python. In addition, web developers need to be able to use server-side scripting languages, such as SQL, to interact with databases.
Webmasters typically are responsible for managing and maintaining websites. This can involve tasks such as ensuring that all the website’s content is up-to-date, fixing any broken links and monitoring website traffic. Webmasters also may need to have some basic knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO) so they can ensure that the website is visible to potential customers.
Web developers, on the other hand, are responsible for creating the actual code that makes up websites. In addition to having strong coding skills, web developers need to be able to think creatively to come up with new and innovative ways to design websites. They also need to have strong problem-solving skills so they can troubleshoot any issues that arise during the development process.
Salary
Webmasters can earn an average salary of $70,066 per year, while web developers can earn an average salary of $78,677 per year. Both of these average salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.
