Formerly known as 'Twitter Bootstrap', this CSS framework has proved itself to be reliable for web developers everywhere. With the theory that there is no need to reinvent (or hard code) the wheel; Bootstrap provides CSS for all of your basics. 

What is a CSS Framework

Whether you are building a house or a website, you will want to rely on established patterns for a successful finish. For web development, this means tackling browser issues, mobile layouts, and having standard features at your disposal for each project. 

A framework is a standardized set of concepts, practices and criteria for dealing with a common type of problem, which can be used as a reference to help us approach and resolve new problems of a similar nature.
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Some web developers prefer to create their own, but this does mean maintenance, testing, and ensuring everything is 100% up-to-date. To save time, you can utilize a framework such as Bootstrap. 

Why Use it?

As mentioned above, Bootstrap will keep your website running smoothly across a variety of devices as well as save you time in the long run. What are some other reasons?

The grid System

Bootstrap is built using a mobile-first grid system. This makes it easy to layout your page using columns in a responsive manner. Bootstrap separates the page into 12 columns. By using div tags in your HTML, you can determine how far you would like your content to stretch across the page. You also have predetermined sizes for mobile, tablets, laptops, and larger screens. 

Customization

You can easily download a customized version of Bootstrap if you want by making a check next to the items you want to include before downloading.

Common CSS

Components

JavaScript Components

Browser Compatibility

We know all too well about browser compatibility. It usually hits you after you create a stunning website, only to find out it barely functions on Internet Explorer during the QA process. We have all been there. Bootstrap helps tackle some common browser bugs to eliminate the disappointment. 

JavaScript

Whether you are just starting out in development or you are a bit rusty with JavaScript, Bootstrap gives us a hand with their .JS file. You can see the list of options under 'JavaScript Components' in the list above. 

Open Source

Best of all, Bootstrap is free and constantly being updated. 

What If I Don't Know CSS? 

While this can be great for beginners and experts, you should have a solid foundation before you begin. This will help with customization so that your website does not look run of the mill. It can also help you troubleshoot if something doesn't go as planned. 

It is also a requirement to know HTML in order to implement Bootstrap. While programming knowledge is becoming the future, not all of us have time to bust out the books and study, especially when there is a business to run. If that is the case, you can always bring in the professionals. 

Do you use CSS frameworks like Bootstrap? Which one is your favorite? Let us know!