Web development refers to the process of building and maintaining websites or web applications that are accessible via the internet or an intranet. It involves several tasks, including web design, web content development, client-side/server-side scripting, network security configuration, and web server and database management. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of web development:

1. Planning and Analysis: This stage involves understanding the project requirements, target audience, and goals of the website or web application. It includes creating wireframes, user personas, and defining the overall structure and functionality.
2. Design: Designing the visual layout and user interface of the website or web application. This includes creating mockups, choosing color schemes, typography, and imagery to create an attractive and user-friendly design.
3. Front-end Development: Front-end development involves writing code that controls the presentation and behavior of the website or web application in the user’s browser. This includes HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) for structure, CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) for styling, and JavaScript for interactivity.
4. Back-end Development: Back-end development involves writing code that runs on the server and interacts with databases, APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), and other server-side components. This includes programming languages such as Python, Ruby, PHP, Node.js, and frameworks like Django, Ruby on Rails, Laravel, and Express.js.
5. Database Integration: Most dynamic websites and web applications rely on databases to store and retrieve data. This involves designing and implementing a database schema, writing SQL queries, and integrating the database with the back-end code.
6. Testing: Testing is essential to ensure that the website or web application functions correctly and is compatible with different devices, browsers, and screen sizes. This includes functional testing, usability testing, performance testing, and security testing.
7. Deployment: Deploying the website or web application to a web server where it can be accessed by users. This involves configuring the server, uploading files, setting up databases, and configuring domain names and DNS (Domain Name System) settings.
8. Maintenance and Updates: Providing ongoing maintenance and support for the website or web application after it has been deployed. This includes fixing bugs, updating content, adding new features, and optimizing performance.

Web development often involves collaboration between web designers, front-end developers, back-end developers, database administrators, and other stakeholders to create and maintain high-quality websites and web applications that meet the needs of users and businesses.