Comparing server-side and client-side paywall technology

• There are effectively two methods for paywalling web-based content from a technical perspective: Server-side, and client/browser-side. 
• Each approach has advantages and drawbacks which should be understood and weighed when determining which to employ.

One important challenge for any publisher selling access to content on a subscription or membership basis is how best to ensure it’s only made available to paying customers. No publisher likes the idea of visitors “hacking” their way around a paywall to access premium content for free.

The vast majority of publishers and paywall technology providers currently employ one of two technical approaches to paywalling web-based content: the “server-side” method, or the “client-side” method. (The client-side method is also referred to as “browser-side”)