External SVG
External SVG refers to Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) files that are stored separately from the main HTML document and referenced via a URL, typically using the <img> tag, <object> tag, or CSS background-image property. This approach allows for reusable, cacheable vector graphics that can be easily updated across a website without modifying the HTML. It contrasts with inline SVG, where the SVG code is embedded directly in the HTML markup.
Developers should use external SVG when they need to reuse the same graphic across multiple pages or applications, as it enables caching by browsers to improve performance and reduces HTML file size. It is ideal for logos, icons, and complex illustrations that require consistent styling and updates, such as in design systems or large-scale web projects where maintainability is key. However, it limits the ability to manipulate SVG elements with JavaScript or CSS compared to inline SVG.