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Description

From social media widgets to embedding videos, reviews, and
sports cores, external content and widgets can truly transform a website.  However, despite their numerous benefits, integrating external content/widgets can also present several downsides. 

For more detailed show notes visit https://www.skyrocketradio.com/podcast/weighing-the-downsides-of-external-content-widgets.

"External content" in the context of web development refers to any content or feature on a website that is not hosted or directly controlled by the website itself but is hosted and controlled by a third-party source.  Here are a few examples:

Downsides of External Content

  1. Impact Website Performance
  2. Steal Your Audience
  3. Dependency on Third-party Providers
  4. Security Risks
  5. Inconsistent Branding
  6. Privacy Concerns
  7. Increased Complexity

While integrating external content/widgets can certainly enrich a website's functionality, it's crucial to understand their potential
downsides. Prioritizing your website's performance, security, branding, user privacy, and simplicity should always be at the heart of your decision-making process. Instead of indiscriminately adding externally hosted features, consider each addition carefully and opt for trusted, reliable providers when necessary.