DEV Community

Cover image for How HTML, the Old Language, Still Rules the Web Today 💯
Muhammad Hamid Raza
Muhammad Hamid Raza

Posted on

How HTML, the Old Language, Still Rules the Web Today 💯

HTML is like that old Nokia phone you once had. It looked simple, but guess what? It never stopped working. Even today, HTML is the foundation of every single website on the internet. Yes, the language first created in 1991 is still alive and kicking in 2025!

Why? Let’s explore this fun and useful topic.

What Is HTML?

HTML stands for HyperText Markup Language. It is the language used to structure content on the web such as:

  • Text
  • Images
  • Buttons
  • Forms
  • Videos

Whenever you open a website, you are looking at HTML (even if fancy technologies try to hide it).

Why HTML Still Matters Today

HTML might be old, but it learned how to stay cool! Like a grandparent who uses TikTok.

Here are some reasons HTML stays relevant:

  • Works in every browser
  • Simple to learn and use
  • Updated regularly with modern features (like <video>, <audio>, and <canvas>)
  • Search engines understand it
  • Essential for accessibility and SEO

Without HTML, the web would look like a shopping mall without shops… only empty halls!

Real-Life Example

When you build a house, you need walls first, right?

Then you decorate with paint and furniture.

HTML = Walls

CSS = Paint and Design

JavaScript = Lights and Fancy Stuff

Simple!

Comparison: Old HTML vs Modern HTML5

Feature Old HTML (1990s) Modern HTML5
Media Support No videos or audio Built-in <video> and <audio>
Forms Very basic Advanced inputs like date pickers
Graphics Not supported <canvas> and SVG
Mobile Support Not great Responsive and mobile-friendly

HTML5 is the upgraded superhero version of HTML.

Example:

Old HTML was Superman without flying power. New HTML5 is Superman with Wi-Fi and GPS.

Pros and Cons of HTML

✅ Pros

  • Easy for beginners
  • No installation required
  • SEO-friendly
  • Fast to load
  • Works everywhere

❌ Cons

  • Needs CSS for design
  • Needs JavaScript for interactions
  • Not suitable for standalone apps

Do’s and Don’ts of HTML

✅ Do’s

  • Use semantic tags like <header>, <nav>, <footer>
  • Keep code clean and organized
  • Make websites accessible

❌ Don’ts

  • Do not use too many <div> tags… div div div div is not a website, it is a div-forest!
  • Avoid outdated tags like <font> and <center>

Common Mistakes

  • Forgetting closing tags → Like leaving your house gate open. Not safe!
  • Not using alt text for images → Search engines hate surprises.
  • Misusing headings → H1 is king, do not make every line a king!

One Question for You

If HTML is the skeleton of the web, could websites live without bones?

Definitely not!

Conclusion

HTML may be old, but it is still the boss of the web. As long as websites exist, HTML will exist. Keep learning it because every new technology in web development stands on top of HTML.

Top comments (0)