How to Find Out What Website Builder Was Used: A Journey Through Digital Footprints and Creative Chaos

In the vast expanse of the internet, every website tells a story—not just through its content, but also through the tools and technologies that brought it to life. One of the most intriguing questions for web enthusiasts, developers, and curious minds alike is: How to find out what website builder was used? This question often leads us down a rabbit hole of digital detective work, where we uncover clues hidden in the code, design, and even the very essence of the website itself. But before we dive into the technicalities, let’s entertain a slightly whimsical thought: What if the website builder used was chosen by a cat walking across a keyboard? While this scenario is unlikely, it does highlight the unpredictable nature of web design and the creative chaos that often accompanies it.
1. Inspecting the Source Code
The first and most straightforward method to identify the website builder is by inspecting the source code. Most website builders leave behind a digital fingerprint in the form of meta tags, comments, or specific scripts. For instance, WordPress websites often include meta tags like <meta name="generator" content="WordPress 6.0">
. Similarly, Wix websites might have references to wix.com
in their JavaScript files or CSS classes. By right-clicking on the webpage and selecting “View Page Source,” you can search for these telltale signs.
2. Analyzing the URL Structure
The URL structure of a website can also provide clues about the website builder. For example, WordPress websites often have URLs that include /wp-admin/
or /wp-content/
. Squarespace websites, on the other hand, might have URLs that include .squarespace.com
. Even if the website uses a custom domain, the subdomains or file paths can sometimes reveal the underlying platform.
3. Using Online Tools and Services
There are several online tools and services designed specifically to identify the website builder used. Tools like BuiltWith, Wappalyzer, and WhatCMS can analyze a website and provide detailed information about the technologies used, including the website builder. These tools work by scanning the website for specific patterns, scripts, and other indicators that are unique to particular platforms.
4. Examining the Design and Layout
The design and layout of a website can also offer hints about the website builder. Many website builders have distinct design templates and elements that are easily recognizable. For example, Wix websites often have a very drag-and-drop feel, with elements that are perfectly aligned and spaced. Squarespace websites, on the other hand, are known for their sleek, minimalist designs. By familiarizing yourself with the design styles of different website builders, you can often make an educated guess about the platform used.
5. Checking for Platform-Specific Features
Some website builders come with unique features that are not available on other platforms. For example, Shopify websites are typically e-commerce sites with built-in shopping carts and payment gateways. If a website has these features, it’s likely built with Shopify or a similar e-commerce platform. Similarly, WordPress websites often have a blog section, as WordPress started as a blogging platform before evolving into a full-fledged content management system.
6. Looking for Watermarks or Branding
In some cases, website builders include watermarks or branding elements that are visible to visitors. For example, free versions of Wix websites often have a small Wix logo or a “Made with Wix” banner at the bottom of the page. While these elements can sometimes be removed with a premium subscription, they are a dead giveaway for the website builder used.
7. Consulting the Website’s Documentation or FAQ
If the website has a documentation or FAQ section, it might mention the website builder used. Some website owners are proud of the tools they use and might openly share this information. Additionally, if the website has a blog or a “About Us” page, the owner might have mentioned the website builder in passing.
8. Using Browser Extensions
Browser extensions like Wappalyzer and BuiltWith Technology Profiler can be installed directly into your browser. These extensions analyze the website you’re visiting and provide a detailed breakdown of the technologies used, including the website builder. This method is particularly useful if you frequently need to identify website builders and want a quick, on-the-spot solution.
9. Checking for Third-Party Integrations
Many website builders offer integrations with third-party services like Google Analytics, Mailchimp, or social media platforms. By examining the website’s integrations, you can sometimes infer the website builder used. For example, if a website uses a specific e-commerce plugin that is only available on Shopify, it’s a strong indicator that the website was built with Shopify.
10. Asking the Website Owner
Finally, if all else fails, you can always ask the website owner directly. While this might not always be feasible, especially for larger websites, it’s a straightforward way to get the information you need. Many website owners are happy to share the tools and technologies they use, especially if they are proud of their website.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I find out the website builder used if the website is built with a custom platform? A: If the website is built with a custom platform or a highly customized version of a popular website builder, it might be more challenging to identify the exact platform used. However, you can still look for clues in the source code, design, and integrations to make an educated guess.
Q: Are there any website builders that are harder to identify than others? A: Some website builders, like Webflow or custom-built platforms, are designed to be more flexible and less identifiable. These platforms often allow for extensive customization, which can make it harder to pinpoint the exact builder used.
Q: Can I use the same methods to identify the CMS (Content Management System) used? A: Yes, many of the methods mentioned above can also be used to identify the CMS used. Tools like WhatCMS are specifically designed to identify CMS platforms, and the same principles of inspecting source code, URL structure, and design elements apply.
Q: Is it possible for a website to hide the website builder used? A: While it’s possible to obscure or remove some indicators of the website builder used, it’s difficult to completely hide all traces. Advanced users might be able to identify the platform through more in-depth analysis, even if the obvious clues are removed.
In conclusion, identifying the website builder used is a fascinating exercise that combines technical skills, design knowledge, and a bit of detective work. Whether you’re a web developer, a digital marketer, or just a curious internet user, the methods outlined above will help you uncover the secrets behind any website. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even stumble upon a website that was indeed built by a cat walking across a keyboard.