The HTML <noscript> tag
The HTML <noscript> element displays content only when scripts are disabled or unsupported. Use it to provide a fallback message or essential markup for users without JavaScript.
Overview
The <noscript> element holds content that is shown only when JavaScript is unavailable: turned off in the browser, or not supported by it. It is your fallback for the minority of visits where scripting does not run.
Where it can sit depends on context: inside the <body> it can contain any flow content (a message, a static alternative), while inside the <head> it may only contain metadata-style elements like <link> and <style>.
The stronger strategy, though, is progressive enhancement: build a baseline that works without JavaScript, then layer scripting on top. Used that way, <noscript> becomes a small safety net for the few places scripting is genuinely required, rather than a crutch for a script-only site.
Syntax
<noscript>This site works best with JavaScript enabled.</noscript>Example
<noscript><p>Please enable JavaScript to use the interactive demo.</p></noscript>Best practices
- Build a working baseline that does not require JavaScript (progressive enhancement).
- Use
<noscript>sparingly, to fill genuine gaps where scripting is required. - In the body it holds flow content; in the head, only metadata elements.
- Provide a clear, helpful message rather than a generic "enable JavaScript" notice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the noscript element?
What can go inside noscript?
Is noscript still useful?
<noscript> filling the gaps.