Website development refers to the process of creating and maintaining websites. It encompasses several aspects including web design, web content development, client-side/server-side scripting, and network security configuration. The main components of website development include:

1. **Web Design**: The layout, graphic design, and user interface of the site. Focuses on aesthetics and user experience.
   
2. **Front-end Development**: Involves the creation of the visual parts of a website that users interact with. Technologies used include HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.

3. **Back-end Development**: Refers to the server-side logic and database interactions, handling data, and server configuration. Common languages include PHP, Python, Ruby, and frameworks like Node.js, Django, and Ruby on Rails.

4. **Content Management Systems (CMS)**: Platforms like WordPress, Joomla, or Drupal that allow users to create and manage digital content easily.

5. **Responsive Design**: Ensuring the website works well on a variety of devices and screen sizes.

6. **SEO (Search Engine Optimization)**: Techniques to improve the website's visibility on search engines.

7. **Testing and Deployment**: Involves checking for bugs, ensuring compatibility across browsers and devices, and finally launching the website.

8. **Maintenance and Updates**: Ongoing process after the site is live for security, performance, and content updates.

Effective website development combines these elements to create a functional, user-friendly, and visually appealing online presence.