analytics-dictionary / term / experimentation
Server-side testing
Server-side testing runs experiments in your backend, so users get the assigned variant before the page is rendered.
Written by Reflective Data experts · updated Oct 5, 2026
Because the decision happens on the server, there is no flicker and you can test anything: pricing, search ranking, emails or APIs. It requires engineering involvement and an SDK.
It suits product and complex logic tests; client-side tools suit quick visual changes.
related
Client-side testingFeature flagFlash of original content (FOOC)
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We set up, audit and run experimentation programs on any tool. A/B testing services → · Audits