If you’re familiar with the term “software development”, you may get to know about backend and frontend. When building a website or app, two main parts work together to make everything function. In our previous articles, we used to introduce what front-end development is. And now, we’ll harness the other topic: what is back-end, and what does a back-end developer do? Here, we’ll help you better understand the key responsibilities of back-end developers and how to become one. But first, let’s dive into the definition of back-end development.
What is Back-End Development?
Back-end development is the behind-the-scenes part of a website or app that you don’t see. It focuses on how the product works by handling tasks like monitoring databases, keeping servers running seamlessly, and connecting APIs. Further, back-end developers write code to help the back-end and front-end communicate. This ensures data flows properly throughout the product. Also, it gives users a smooth experience when interacting with the front-end.
With the back-end scaling in significance, more companies are offering outsourcing services and training to aid your development. Future Market Insights Inc. have estimated the global BaaS (Backend-as-a-Service) market to surpass USD 27 billion in 2033, expanding at a CAGR of approximately 24.5% since 2023. On the other hand, global back-end developer training is expected to grow at a CAGR of 20.5% over the same period (2024–2030).
Back-end vs Front-end: Key Differences
Both front-end and back-end are equally important in any piece of software. The deployment instance, however do have a different role. Understanding the distinction between these two can better illustrate how software becomes a reality.
The client side, or the front-end is what you see this. That includes the design, buttons and content you see on screen. To show API into some user-friendly manner, front-end developers need to perform using languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. And they foster making the product beautiful and usable.
The back-end, or server side is the part where you cannot see neither touch. It stores and handles data. How the backend: when you perform some actions on front-end(for example, click button) after which send requests to back end. Then the back-end takes those requests, loads data from wherever it needs to read, and sends it back to the front- end. That is what happens in the background.
So, to conclude, front-end development focuses on the software looks and feels right to users. Meanwhile, back-end development ensures the software works properly by monitoring the data and logic. These sides don’t work separately; instead, they collaborate to deliver a smooth user experience.
What Does a Back End Developer Do?
Briefly speaking, a back-end developer is charge of making everything functions seamlessly behind the scenes. They focus on the server, databases, and application logic. As such, they must ensure that data is stored, processed, and retrieved correctly. This ensures the front-end will display the right information to users.
One of their key responsibilities is building and maintaining the server-side code. This includes writing the logic that handles requests from the front-end. For example, when a user submits a form, the back-end developer will make sure the data is securely and properly saved in the database.
They also work on integrating APIs. This allows different systems to communicate with each other. Accordingly, back-end developers need to work with front-end developers to ensure the user experience is smooth.
As a back-end developer, you often do some daily activities like writing code, testing it, and fixing any bugs. Sound like front-end developers, right? Moreover, you spend time optimizing the server for better performance. You also need to implement security measures to safeguard user data.
Recommended reading: How Much Does Google Pay Their Software Engineers?
How to Become a Back-End Developer for Beginners
Starting a career as a back-end developer can be exciting. The path may seem challenging at first, but with the right steps, you can achieve your goal.
First, begin by learning the basics of programming. Choose a language like Python, Java, or JavaScript. These are commonly used in back-end development. Start with small projects to practice your skills. This will help you build a strong foundation.
Next, get familiar with databases. Understanding how to store, retrieve, and manage data is crucial. Learn SQL, as it’s the standard language for working with databases. Practice creating and managing databases to gain confidence.
After that, explore server-side frameworks. These frameworks make it easier to build and manage back-end code. Popular choices include Django, Node.js, and Spring. Choose one that aligns with your preferred programming language.
It’s also important to understand APIs. Learn how to create and integrate them. APIs allow different software systems to communicate, which is a key part of back-end development.
Finally, keep practicing by building real projects. Create a simple website or app that uses a database and server-side logic. This hands-on experience will boost your skills and prepare you for a back-end developer role.
Remember, becoming a back-end developer takes time and dedication. Start with the basics, keep learning, and practice consistently. This will help you progress on your journey.
Recommended reading: What Full-Stack Engineer Really Is In 2022?
How to Contribute to Your Company as a Back-End Developer: Designveloper’s Tips
To position yourself in the company and make useful contributions, follow our tips given by experts at Designveloper:
- Place great concentration on programming and debugging.
- Be a team player with the front-end development team and other stakeholders. This is especially important for freelance and offshore backend developers.
- Master communication skills to keep everyone in the team informed of progress and existing issues in order to come up with solutions in a timely manner.
- Create a set of customizable codes that could be reused in future similar projects in order to save time.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest trend in back-end and front-end development as well as in the technology arena in general.
- Make time for listening to specific feedback from customers, for example, troubleshooting, application glitches, and resolving bugs.
- Stay informed of your clientele’s requirements and equip yourself with the latest information about back-end development. To do so, for instance, our back-end developers at Designveloper often attend regular industry conferences, webinars, and educational programs. These events are often sponsored by the company. They allow developers to learn from experts and network with peers.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need a bachelor’s degree to become a junior back-end developer?
The answer is no. A bachelor’s degree is not necessarily required to become a back-end developer. Coding bootcamps, online courses, and self study are common in the industry for developers to learn. Even so, a computer science degree or similar can help provide an excellent basis for getting hired.
Q2: What is the salary of a back-end developer?
A back-end developer can expect a salary which varies by experience, industry and location. Back-end developers make a good average income. So for instance, in USA a junior back-end developer will make average $94,420/year and senior back-end cracker could at even an annual salary of averagely $150,401.
Q3: What are some common challenges faced by back-end developers?
Common challenges for back-end developers include managing server load, handling large volumes of data, and ensuring data security. They must also troubleshoot issues that arise and integrate different systems or APIs smoothly. Balancing performance and functionality can be a significant challenge.
Conclusion
Now, we’ve led you through a journey of discovering a back-end developer’s responsibilities. If you are on the way to becoming that great back-end developer being the talk of the town, do not forget to reach out and share the obstacles on your growth path. Want more information about back-end development? Subscribe to our blog to receive the latest news!
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