Live Server

What it is

Live Server is a lightweight development HTTP server that automatically refreshes the browser when changes are made to HTML, CSS, or JavaScript files. It's ideal for front-end developers who need real-time feedback during their coding process without manual page reloads.

Live Server offers a simple, no-frills solution for front-end developers to see their code updates instantly without the need for manual page refreshes.

When it fits — and when it doesn’t

Known weaknesses

Each one links to the public issue, changelog or docs page it came from, where we have one.

1. 01

   Limited customization options for server settings

   Live Server primarily serves files from a local directory and lacks advanced configuration options such as middleware support or custom headers.

2. 02

   Security concerns with default setup

   Running Live Server on default settings can expose development environments to potential security risks, as it does not include features like HTTPS by default.

3. 03

   Does not support live reloading for all file types

   Live Server only supports automatic browser refresh for HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files. Other file types do not trigger a page reload automatically.

What it does well

• Automatically refreshes the browser on file changes

• Serves files from a local directory over HTTP

• Supports custom port and root directory settings

Pricing

Free tier

YesOpen source — free to use

Paid from

$0

Model

Flat rate

Enterprise plan

No

Pricing not independently confirmed — check the vendor’s page.