What Makes a Progressive Web App: HTTPS, Service Workers, and a Manifest

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are websites that behave like native apps, offering home screen installation, offline access, and push notifications without requiring app store distribution. They are built on three core pillars: HTTPS for security, a Service Worker that intercepts network requests and manages caching, and a Web App Manifest JSON file that defines the app's name, icons, and display settings. The Service Worker supports multiple caching strategies — including Cache First, Network First, and Stale While Revalidate — allowing apps to function even without an internet connection. A valid manifest combined with a registered Service Worker triggers the 'Add to Home Screen' install prompt in Chrome and most Android browsers. Tools like PWABuilder can help developers audit an existing site and auto-generate the required manifest, icons, and Service Worker files.
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