What are the differences between a programmer and a webmaster?

Question

I thought they were 'the same' but now I realize they are not (two different sites in stackexchange).

However I don't know the differences, what does a webmaster do (and don't) and the same for a programmer (or coder or developer?)

Answer 1

A programmer writes code in a programming language to create software.

A webmaster manages a web site, which means he handles server management, file management, database setup, updating content, communicating with users, etc.

The two terms are not exclusive, and often they overlap. A lot of 'webmasters' are also programmers.

The term 'webmaster' is somewhat dated, imo. Very 1995.

Answer 2

A webmaster (a blend of web and master1), also called a web architect, web developer, site author, website administrator is a person responsible for maintaining one or many websites. The duties of the webmaster may include ensuring that the web servers, hardware and software are operating accurately, designing the website, generating and revising web pages, replying to user comments, and examining traffic through the site. Webmasters "must also be well-versed in Web transaction software, payment-processing software, and security software."

A programmer, computer programmer or coder is someone who writes computer software. The term computer programmer can refer to a specialist in one area of computer programming or to a generalist who writes code for many kinds of software. One who practices or professes a formal approach to programming may also be known as a programmer analyst. A programmer's primary computer language (C, C++, Java, Lisp, Delphi etc.) is often prefixed to the above titles, and those who work in a web environment often prefix their titles with web. The term programmer can be used to refer to a software developer, software engineer, computer scientist, or software analyst. However, members of these professions typically possess other software engineering skills, beyond programming; for this reason, the term programmer is sometimes considered an insulting or derogatory oversimplification of these other professions. This has sparked much debate amongst developers, analysts, computer scientists, programmers, and outsiders who continue to be puzzled at the subtle differences in these occupations

Answer 3

While I work as a Web Developer which is a bit of both, here are the differences that I'd note:

Webmaster can imply various systems administration duties like configuring and managing servers, responding to e-mails that someone may send you about a site that "Your site would rock if you had..." There is also something rather old school about this title. This also assumes some familiarity with web server software(IIS and Apache), DNS and a few other things that are part of individuals, groups or corporations have an on-line presence. Content management systems, blogging engines, e-mail and other web-based software may be within their realm to know.

Programmer though doesn't imply a specific realm. Some may program hardware or embedded systems while others may do more applications or web-based software. A program is merely a set of instructions for a machine to perform a task, on the most basic of levels.