35. What is the difference between web stack, app stack, tech stack, and full stack?

In your coding/tech life, you would’ve heard of all these terms. But what do each of them mean?

These terms are often used interchangeably but can have distinct meanings depending on context. Here’s a breakdown of each term:

Web Stack:

This generally refers to the collection of software required for web development. It typically includes technologies such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript for the frontend, and various backend technologies like web servers, databases, and server-side scripting languages (e.g., Python, Ruby, PHP, Node.js).

App Stack:

This can refer to the software components needed for building any kind of application, including web applications, mobile applications, desktop applications, etc. The specific technologies included in an app stack can vary based on the type of application being developed. For example, a mobile app stack might include technologies like Java or Kotlin for Android development, Swift for iOS development, and various backend services.

Tech Stack:

This is a broader term that encompasses all the technologies and tools used in the development and operation of a software application. It includes not only the programming languages and frameworks but also other tools like version control systems, build systems, deployment tools, etc. The tech stack can vary widely depending on factors like the type of application, the development team’s preferences, and the project’s requirements.

Full Stack:

This term typically refers to a type of developer who is proficient in both frontend (client-side) and backend (server-side) development. A full-stack developer is capable of working on all layers of a web application, from the user interface to the database and everything in between. They are knowledgeable about a variety of technologies and can handle tasks ranging from designing user interfaces to writing server-side logic and managing databases.

In summary, while these terms are related and often used in similar contexts, they can have slightly different meanings. “Web stack” and “app stack” typically refer to the technologies used for web and application development, respectively. “Tech stack” encompasses all technologies used in a project, and “full stack” refers to a developer who is proficient in both frontend and backend development.