HTML <noframes>: Obsolete Frameset Fallback

The old <noframes> element supplied fallback content for user agents that could not display a frameset.

Historical noframes example Top ↑

<frameset cols="50%,50%">
  <frame src="frm1.html">
  <frame src="frm2.html">
  <noframes>
    <p>This browser cannot display the framed version.</p>
  </noframes>
</frameset>

Modern fallback strategy Top ↑

Do not create a frameset with a separate fallback branch. Put the important content and navigation directly in the normal HTML document. If an iframe is optional, provide a nearby normal link to the embedded resource when that helps users access the content directly.

<p>
  View the <a href="report.html">report as a separate page</a>.
</p>

Frequently Asked Questions Top ↑

Is noframes still needed?
No. It belongs to the obsolete frameset model.

Should I put fallback text inside every iframe?
Modern browsers support iframe. When alternative access matters, provide useful normal page content or a direct link rather than relying on obsolete frameset fallback markup.

← Frames overview Modern iframe →

Subhendu Mohapatra

Author & Instructor at plus2net

I write and maintain practical tutorials on Python, PHP, SQL, JavaScript, HTML, jQuery, and web development at plus2net. The tutorials focus on clear explanations, working examples, and code that readers can test and adapt while learning.

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