What is the primary function of server-side rendering (SSR) in web applications?

The primary function of server-side rendering (SSR) is to generate HTML on the server for better search engine optimization (SEO) and improved load speed. When a web application employs SSR, the server processes the application logic, fetches the necessary data, and renders the final HTML, which is then sent to the client. This allows web crawlers to easily index the content, as the full HTML is available upon the initial request, which is beneficial for SEO.

Additionally, because the server sends a fully rendered page, users see content faster, as their browsers do not have to wait for JavaScript to execute in order to display anything meaningful on the screen. This approach contrasts with client-side rendering, where the initial request might only return a skeleton HTML page, requiring extra time as JavaScript loads to populate the content.

In terms of the other choices, while enhancing user interactivity through JavaScript is an important aspect of modern web development, it does not directly relate to the primary function of SSR. Client-side data storage and efficient database query management also play significant roles in web applications but are not the core objectives of server-side rendering itself.