---
title: "Introduction"
space: "Framework"
url: "https://docs.frappe.io/framework/user/en/desk/reports"
updated: "2026-02-17"
---

## What is Frappe Framework?

Frappe, pronounced *fra-pay*, is a full stack, batteries-included, web framework written in Python and Javascript with MariaDB as the database. It is the framework which powers [ERPNext](https://erpnext.com), is pretty generic and can be used to build database driven apps.

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	<img src="/files/hero-image.png" style="margin: 0 0 0 0;">
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## Why Frappe?

The key difference in Frappe compared to other frameworks is that **meta-data** is also treated as data. This enables you to build front-ends very easily. We believe in a monolithic architecture, so Frappe comes with almost everything you need to build a modern web application. It has a full featured Admin UI called the Desk that handles forms, navigation, lists, menus, permissions, file attachment and much more out of the box. [Read more here](/framework/user/en/basics/why).

## Key Features

1. Full-Stack Framework: Frappe covers both front-end and back-end development, allowing developers to build complete applications using a single framework.
2. Built-in Admin Interface: Provides a pre-built, customizable admin dashboard for managing application data, reducing development time and effort.
3. Role-Based Permissions: Comprehensive user and role management system to control access and permissions within the application.
4. REST API: Automatically generated RESTful API for all models, enabling easy integration with other systems and services.
5. Customizable Forms and Views: Flexible form and view customization using server-side scripting and client-side JavaScript.
6. Report Builder: Powerful reporting tool that allows users to create custom reports without writing any code.

## Installation

Before you can use Frappe, you need to install it. We have a complete [installation guide](/framework/user/en/installation) which covers all possibilities, this guide will also help you understand the backend stack.

## Learning and community

1. [Frappe School](https://school.frappe.io/lms/courses) - Learn Frappe Framework and ERPNext from the various courses by the maintainers or from the community.
2. [GitHub](https://github.com/frappe/frappe) - Explore the source code, contribute, and collaborate with the Frappe community.
3. [Discussion Forum](https://discuss.frappe.io/c/framework/5) - Hang out with our growing community on our forum, ask questions, help others and be a part of the community.
4. [buildwithhussain.dev](https://youtube.com/@buildwithhussain) - Watch Frappe Framework being used in the wild to build world-class web apps.