What is Blazor?
Blazor is a Microsoft framework for building interactive web applications using C# instead of JavaScript. With .NET 10, Blazor has become more powerful and flexible than ever.
Blazor Hosting Models
1. Blazor Server
The application runs entirely on the server. UI updates are sent to the browser via a SignalR (WebSocket) connection.
Advantages:
- Faster initial load time (minimal code sent to browser)
- Full access to server resources
- Works on older browsers
- Smaller download size
- Better security (code stays on server)
Considerations:
- Requires constant server connection
- Network latency affects responsiveness
- Higher server resource usage with many users
Best for: Internal business apps, dashboards, apps requiring server-side processing
2. Blazor WebAssembly (WASM)
The entire application downloads to the browser and runs client-side using WebAssembly.
Advantages:
- Offline support after initial load
- No constant server connection needed
- Can be hosted as static files
- Reduced server load
- Can work as a Progressive Web App (PWA)
Considerations:
- Larger initial download (includes .NET runtime)
- Requires modern browser with WebAssembly support
- Client device performance matters
Best for: Public-facing apps, PWAs, offline-capable applications
3. Blazor Web App (Unified - .NET 8+)
Combines Server and WebAssembly in a single project with flexible render modes.
Render Modes:
- Static Server: Pre-rendered HTML, no interactivity
- Interactive Server: SignalR-based interactivity
- Interactive WebAssembly: Client-side interactivity
- Interactive Auto: Starts with Server, switches to WASM when ready
Best for: Most new projects - offers maximum flexibility
4. Blazor Hybrid
Blazor components in native desktop/mobile apps using .NET MAUI, WPF, or Windows Forms.
Best for: Cross-platform desktop and mobile applications
Choosing the Right Model
| Requirement | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| Fast initial load | Blazor Server or Web App (Server mode) |
| Offline support | Blazor WebAssembly |
| Maximum flexibility | Blazor Web App |
| Internal/enterprise apps | Blazor Server |
| Public websites | Blazor Web App with prerendering |
| Desktop/mobile apps | Blazor Hybrid |
Hosting on Our Windows Platform
All Blazor hosting models are supported on our Windows hosting with Plesk:
- Blazor Server: Requires ASP.NET Core hosting
- Blazor WebAssembly: Can be hosted as static files or with ASP.NET Core backend
- Blazor Web App: Requires ASP.NET Core hosting
