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8.1 Python with Django (Official Track)

This section introduces Django as the official high-level Python web framework for secure, maintainable, and rapid development.

What Django provides​

From the official Django documentation, Django emphasizes:

  • A batteries-included framework for web apps
  • Reusable app architecture
  • ORM-backed data modeling
  • Secure defaults for common web threats
  • An admin interface for data-backed applications

Core architecture (MTV pattern)​

Django applications are structured around:

  • Models: Python classes mapped to database tables via ORM
  • Templates: Presentation layer for rendering output
  • Views: Request handling and business logic
  • URLconf: Declarative URL routing to views

Request lifecycle essentials​

  1. URL matcher resolves incoming path to a view
  2. View executes logic and interacts with models/forms/services
  3. View returns HttpResponse (or raises errors)
  4. Middleware hooks run around request/response flow

Security features (officially documented)​

Django includes built-in defenses for:

  • Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
  • Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)
  • SQL Injection (when using ORM safely)
  • Clickjacking protections
  • Secure password hashing and auth flows

Production-ready practices​

  • Keep DEBUG=False in production
  • Set ALLOWED_HOSTS correctly
  • Store secrets outside source code
  • Use migration workflow for schema changes
  • Keep dependencies updated through regular patching

Official references​