what are frames in html

Quick Scoop

In HTML, frames are old layout sections that split the browser window into multiple independent areas, each able to load a different page. They were commonly used with <frameset> and <frame>, but they are not supported in HTML5 and are now considered outdated.

What they did

• A frame showed one separate HTML document inside part of a page.

• A frameset defined how the window was split into rows or columns.

• Each frame could scroll and change content independently.

Why they’re obsolete

Frames caused usability and accessibility problems, and modern HTML replaced them with better options like <iframe>, CSS layout, and standard page sections. If you’re learning modern HTML, focus on <div>, CSS Grid/Flexbox , and <iframe> instead.

Tiny example

html

<frameset cols="20%,80%">
  <frame src="menu.html">
  <frame src="content.html">
</frameset>

That kind of layout is historical now, not recommended for new sites.

If you want, I can also show you the modern replacement using<iframe> or CSS Grid.