How to Find Out What Platform a Website Uses?

Introduction:

In the vast realm of the internet, websites are the digital storefronts of businesses and the creative expressions of individuals. Ever wondered what technologies power your favorite websites? In this guide, we’ll unravel the mystery of website platforms and provide you with practical methods to determine the underlying technology stack. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a business owner looking for insights, understanding a website’s framework and content management system (CMS) can be invaluable.

I. Understanding Website Technology Detection:

Before we delve into the methods, let’s establish a basic understanding of website technology detection. It involves deciphering the coding languages, frameworks, and CMS that form the backbone of a website. This section will demystify the jargon, making it accessible for beginners.

Several online tools and platforms specialize in detecting the technology stack of a website. We’ll explore the functionalities of popular tools like BuiltWith, Wappalyzer, and WhatRuns, highlighting their features and step-by-step procedures to extract valuable information.

II. Platform Identification Methods:

Inspecting the Page Source Code:

To start your journey, let’s explore the method of inspecting the page source code. This step-by-step walkthrough will guide you through the essential elements of the code, allowing you to identify key technologies employed in the website’s development.

BuiltWith: Uncovering the Blueprint of Websites

BuiltWith is a comprehensive online tool designed to reveal the technological infrastructure supporting a website. Its extensive database allows users to identify not only the frameworks and CMS but also analytics tools, advertising networks, and more. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use BuiltWith effectively:

1. Visit BuiltWith.com: Start by navigating to the BuiltWith website at builtwith.com.
2. Enter the Website URL: Input the URL of the website you want to analyze into the search bar on the homepage.
3. Explore the Results: BuiltWith generates a detailed report outlining the technologies used by the website. The results are categorized into sections, providing insights into web hosting, frameworks, content delivery networks (CDNs), and more.
4. Analyze Trends: BuiltWith often includes historical data, allowing you to track changes in a website’s technology stack over time. This feature is particularly useful for staying updated on the latest industry trends.
5. Export Data: For a more in-depth analysis or documentation, BuiltWith allows users to export the data into various formats, facilitating easy sharing and collaboration.

Wappalyzer: Unveiling Web Technologies with Precision

Wappalyzer is a browser extension that provides a quick and intuitive way to identify the technologies behind a website while you browse. Here’s how to use Wappalyzer:

1. Install the Browser Extension: Add the Wappalyzer extension to your browser. It is available for popular browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge.
2. Browse a Website: Visit the website you want to analyze. Wappalyzer operates in the background and automatically detects the technologies in use.
3. Explore the Wappalyzer Icon: Look for the Wappalyzer icon in your browser’s toolbar. Click on it to reveal a dropdown menu showcasing the detected technologies, including frameworks, CMS, and more.
4. Detailed Information: Wappalyzer provides detailed information about each technology it identifies, allowing users to gain a deeper understanding of the website’s tech stack.

WhatRuns: Real-Time Insights into Website Technologies

WhatRuns is another browser extension that delivers real-time information about the technologies employed by a website. Follow these steps to use WhatRuns effectively:

1. Install the WhatRuns Extension: Add the WhatRuns extension to your browser (available for Chrome and Firefox).
2. Visit a Website: Navigate to the website you want to analyze. WhatRuns will instantly begin scanning and displaying the technologies in use.
3. Explore the Dashboard: Click on the WhatRuns icon in your browser to access a dashboard providing detailed information about the detected technologies, including frameworks, CMS, fonts, and more.
4. Track Changes: WhatRuns includes a useful feature that allows you to track changes in a website’s technology stack over time, providing valuable insights into updates or modifications.

Incorporating these tools into your toolkit can significantly streamline the process of identifying the technology stack of a website. Whether you opt for the comprehensive analysis offered by BuiltWith or the real-time insights provided by browser extensions like Wappalyzer and WhatRuns, these tools empower you to navigate the intricate world of web technologies with ease.

III. Determining Website Framework:

Websites are often built on specific frameworks that dictate their structure and functionality. Learn how to identify popular frameworks such as React, Angular, or Vue.js. We’ll discuss manual methods and online tools that simplify the process.

IV. Website Software Analysis:

Dive into the software components that contribute to a website’s performance. From server details to scripting languages, we’ll guide you through the analysis process, providing insights into the software architecture that powers the website.

V. Discovering CMS of a Website:

Content Management Systems (CMS) are the engines behind website content. Learn how to identify the CMS, whether it’s WordPress, Joomla, or another platform. Real-world examples and case studies will illustrate the methods in action.

VI. Conclusion:

In conclusion, the ability to decode a website’s platform is a valuable skill for developers, marketers, and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your projects or analyzing competitors, the insights gained from this guide will empower you in navigating the digital landscape.

VIII. External Reference Links:

Enhance your understanding with external references:

• W3Schools – How Browsers Work
• Mozilla Developer Network – Introduction to HTML
• Google Developers – JavaScript

Explore these resources for in-depth insights into website technologies and development.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll not only unlock the secrets behind your favorite websites but also gain a valuable skill set in the ever-evolving landscape of web technologies. Happy exploring!