JavaScript and Ajax Techniques

Abstract

ASP.NET provides a rich server-based programming model. The postback architecture allows you to perform all your work with object-oriented programming languages on the server, which ensures that your code is secure and compatible with all browsers. However, the postback architecture has its weaknesses. Because posting back the page always involves some small but noticeable overhead, it’s impossible to react efficiently to mouse movements and key presses. Additionally, certain tasks—such as showing pop-up windows, providing a real-time status messages, and communicating between frames—need browser interaction and just aren’t possible with server-side programming.