If you are here, chances are you are interested in finding out what back-end programming is. Alternatively, you might be curious and want to know what back-end development is, who is a back-end developer, and what they do. Fortunately, you are in the right place, as this post explains the roles and responsibilities of back-end developers. So, read on to the end to ensure you get all the exciting conversations around back-end developers.
Back-End development Explained
Before defining back-end development by answering what back-end programming is, let’s zoom out on our conversation to find out how we got here. All websites, software, and apps have client and server sides. Front-end developers write the code (logic) that powers the client side. In contrast, back-end developers like offshore ruby on rails developers write the code that powers the server side of any software, app, or website. And you can find and hire professionals working remotely in Ukraine.
In addition to writing the code needed to create a database, back-end developers also write the code that builds out the server and application sides. These professionals also handle API migration, Server performance enhancement, and database migration.
What skills do you need to be a back-end developer?
Now that you have a picture of a back-end developer and what back-end development entails, let us discuss some of the skills you will need to excel as a back-end developer.
One of the most important skills is understanding back-end coding languages like:
Python
Python is one of the most popular programming languages. So, it is unsurprising that upgrading your Python skills will fast-track your journey to becoming a back-end developer. Also, not that Python is a premier high-level programming language that allows developers to manipulate data in different ways. Especially during data visualization.
Java
Python aside, it will also be best to get acquainted with Java– which many people confuse with JavaScript.
Back-end developers need to familiarize themselves with Java — a general-purpose programming language that facilitates app development. Java allows the creation of robust systems, and developers use IDEs (integrated development environments) when compiling code using the programming language.
Code written in Java can then be compiled into low-level code which software interpreters can understand.
PHP
Commonly known as a hypertext preprocessor, PHP is one of the preferred programming languages among back-end developers. PHP allows programmers to script, which explains why it is referred to as a scripting language.
Simply put, scripting is the interpretation of code or scripts, and it helps developers automate and enhance routine processes in their code.
- An excellent foundation in front-end technologies. Therefore, future back-end developers must learn to use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
- Adequate experience working with RESTful APIs
- An excellent understanding of SQL and MySQL- two of the most commonly used database Technologies
- An understanding of industry guidelines on security and identification
- Knowledge and understanding of back-end development, especially in database and server management areas.
- Understanding database and server administration and configuration will be an added advantage.
Back-end Engineer Explained
Some individuals confuse back-end developers with back-end engineers when outsourcing the services of the best back-end coding talent. So, what is a back-end engineer? Individuals hearing the name back-end for the first time should note that these professionals are responsible for designing, creating, and maintaining the server side of websites, apps, and software. In short, their primary responsibility is building the structure of web and software applications.
Software engineers also design the road map developers follow when working on server-side projects. For that reason, these individuals are also responsible for coding API scripts, business logic, and other crucial scripts that will be used by other team members (developers) who will be working on a server-side project.
Back-end engineers spend their time optimizing their databases and service – the goal being increased speeds and enhanced system stability. These optimizations also boost system security while generating reliable and safe storage solutions.
Popular career paths related to back-end development
Always remember that back-end developer entails working on the server side of applications and software, not just websites. Individuals who understand how to design back-end applications and systems can work in several fields. You now know the answer to the question, “what does a back-end developer do? “Here are some of the most popular jobs you can land as a back-end developer.
Web developer
Working as a web back-end developer is one of the most common jobs for individuals who understand back-end development. Opting to be a website back-end developer will allow you to design and work on the server side of a website. You will also be responsible for maintaining the database and servers on the server-side logic open designated website.
Full-stack developer
Unlike back-end developers, full-stack developers have an excellent working experience with client-side and server-side technologies. Consequently, being a full-stack developer will allow you to work on both the client and server sides of a website or software, especially if the project is small.
