Web development is the process of creating and maintaining websites. It involves several aspects, including web design, web content creation, client-side/server-side scripting, and network security configuration. Web development is typically divided into front-end and back-end development:

Front-end Development: This focuses on what users see and interact with in their browsers. It involves using languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create the layout, design, and interactive features of a website.

Back-end Development: This focuses on the server-side of a website, dealing with databases, server logic, and application functionality. It involves languages like Python, PHP, Ruby, and Java, along with database management systems like MySQL and MongoDB.

Web development also includes ensuring that websites are optimized for different devices, secure from cyber threats, and perform well under varying conditions.