Every day people search or visit several websites. However, many don't know that the sites are split into two distinct parts: one of them is the backend. This is a job that requires specialized skills along with a tad bit of creativity. Hence, it is no wonder that people who have in-depth knowledge about the technicalities and technologies involved in this field are always in high demand. Are you interested in joining this world too? Then this article will help you to know how. Here we will discuss the various aspects you should know and the backend web developer skills you should develop to have a successful career. Go for the best Web Development courses and stay ahead.
What is Backend Development?
Back-end development refers to designing, altering, and fixing the software part of a website. It is the part that the typical users don't see while using a site. It is a field that refers to the behind-the-scene activities that happen when someone acts on a website. A back-end developer is a person who creates the features that a user indirectly uses through a front-end application. Backend web development is also a booming profession that is always in need of skillful professionals. You can also enroll in a web development course to add more skills to your backend developer resume and benefit.
Essential Skills of Back End Development
The backend developers are often referred to as the backbone of web development. This is because they work behind the curtains so that magic can happen in the front end. Hence, you must have a strong foundation as a back-end developer, which makes you capable of doing your job with perfection.
From in-depth knowledge of programming languages to problem-solving skills, there are various qualities that a successful backend developer must possess. This section will discuss some of the aspects you need to learn or develop to succeed in this field of work.
1. Backend Programming Languages Java, Python, PHP
You need to know specific programming languages to have a career path that leads you to success. These are also the aspects that will form the basis of your work. So, why are these languages important? Let's dig a bit deeper.
- Java: This is a language that many often confuse with JavaScript. However, both are different. This programming language is used for general purposes and is a robust system. This is an essential language for a backend developer to know.
- PHP: Do you know what is among the most common server-side language that the backend developers often use? It is PHP. Several websites are being developed using this language. This language is not just open-source but also cost-effective. So, you need to have PHP backend skills.
- Python: You cannot be a backend developer if you don't have Python skills. It is one of the premier languages and is often used by developers to handle simple and complex projects. Some popular applications, including Spotify and Dropbox, are created using this programming language.
2. Knowledge of Popular Frameworks
Backend developers use certain tools to design the architecture of a website. Frameworks make the process easy. It also helps with security and scalability. There are several frameworks that the developers can select to create web apps that have high performance and are flexible.
- Ruby on Rails: Several aspects make this framework stand apart from the crowd. It has automated testing, libraries, and scaffolding and can help with localization. It is also an open-source web app development framework written in the Ruby programming language.
- Django: It is open-source and is considered one of the best Python-based web frameworks. It helps with scalability and security. Besides, it has also added a battery and uses asynchronous programming.
- Flask: This is another Python-based web app framework that many developers prefer as they can create modern web apps using it. Some of the primary features of Flask include WSGI assistance and templating rapid development and deployment and an in-built development server.
- Express: The best part of Express is that it is a lightweight Node.js web app framework that is adaptable too. It helps with debugging and has rapid side-server development.
Also Read - Frontend Developer vs Backend Developer: Key Differences
3. Data Structures and Algorithms
In simple terms, the way to organize and store data can be referred to as data structures. There are various things that you should learn under this, and some of them are:
- Arrays
- Linked Lists
- Stacks
- Queues
- Graphs
- Hash Tables
- Binary Search Tree
Now we come to algorithms. As previously mentioned, backend developers need to know about algorithms that can help them be the best in their profession. Here are some things that you should learn:
- Recursion
- Bubble sort
- Selection sort
- Binary Search
- Insertion Sort
- Databases and Cache
To build a high-performance system, programmers need to rely on the cache. In addition, it is required in a database to keep track of the users' responses. Hence, as a backend developer, it is of utmost necessity that you know how to work on these aspects.
4. HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript make for a back-end developer’s vital skillset. Though front-end developers mostly use them, they are essential inclusions in your back-end developer skills list.
- HTML: This is a fundamental building block. It helps in determining the web page structure.
- CSS: This language deals with how elements on a webpage will be rendered.
- JavaScript: It is a commonly used scripting language for web pages. Hence, java backend skill is essential.
5. Familiarity with Servers
A server is a medium that is most commonly used to deliver essential services. Hence, it is the one that can never be turned off. Therefore, you must have proper knowledge about the working of the servers. Consequently, it is an essential element for a backend developer to learn.
6. Knowledge of APIs
Application Programming Interface can be defined as the base that helps run the entire Internet. It is a component that allows the computers to talk to each other. Hence, we don’t need to highlight how important it is for a person dealing with backend programming to know more about APIs. Two of the most recognized positions for API information are XML and JSON.
7. Version Control and Version Control Systems
It helps track and manage the changes included in the software. As for version control systems, they are tools that enable developers to manage the changes to source code. A backend developer must be knowledgeable about both.
8. Problem-solving
Problems can pop up in any field of work, and the domain of backend development is no different. As a python backend developer, it is your job to make sure that you find proper and fruitful solutions for those problems. Hence, having creativity and the proper understanding of the field is essential if you are keen on becoming a successful name in your profession.
9. Good Communication and Interpersonal Skills
The job of the backend developer doesn't end with creating a technically superior project. They also need to communicate with other team members and departments to implement the project smoothly. Hence, you must have good communication and interpersonal skills. Without these, it will be tough for you to be a team player.
Job Summary of a Backend Developer
They must have a solid understanding of the performance requirements and objectives of the website to build effective and efficient solutions.
Creation and management of application programming interfaces (APIs).
Create data storage and acceptance solutions for websites, especially those that take payments.
The work includes writing, testing, and maintaining development solutions for issues with code.
Effectively communicate with developers, designers, and system administrators to identify new features.
Utilizing appropriate product lifecycle techniques, such as Agile Scrum and frameworks, create a website architecture.
Put the system logic in order.
Give solutions to the system's problems.
Troubleshoot and debug applications.
Education and Work Experience Needed for Backend Developer
The backend developer must possess a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Equally relevant work experience is also suitable for this position.
For this role, you must have at least three years of experience working in a frontend or backend position, ideally as a junior support staff member. In addition, the applicant should acquire a solid understanding of frontend platforms and technologies, including HTML5, SASS, JavaScript, and CSS3.
He should also know site/software compliance requirements for security and accessibility. The applicant will be familiar with Linux, MySQL, and Apache, in addition to Flask and SQLAlchemy. The candidate must also demonstrate a fundamental understanding of how Python and Django function in caching, keeping an eye out for slow queries and developing strategies to speed up processes.
Candidates should demonstrate a fundamental understanding of DevOps, including responsibilities related to maintaining the reliability of developing websites and software and ideas like log rotation and reverse proxies.
Applicants must also be familiar with integrating several databases and data sources into a single system. Additionally, he will have experience managing hosting settings, including database administration and application scalability, to handle traffic variations. Finally, he will demonstrate the skills of data transfer, scripting, transformation, backup setup, and maintenance.
Candidates should be able to construct database schemas that enable and represent business processes and automated unit tests and testing frameworks like JUnit and Jenkins. A competent candidate will also be able to demonstrate familiarity and proficiency with a range of coding languages and tools, such as JavaScript, Java, and Scala, as well as Git, another popular coding tool.
Responsibilities and Duties Backend Developer Must Hold
The following are some of the main duties of a backend developer:
Participating in continual education and training to keep current with best practices and pick up new programming languages
Together with the front-end developers and other team members, set objectives and provide more readable, seamless scripts to enhance the user experience.
Gathering and communicating crucial information to relevant stakeholders, such as clients or management
Keeping abreast of market developments and trends to create concepts for new programs, services, or goods
Resolving problems, identifying areas for improvement, gathering and analyzing data, guidelines, and codes
Upkeep, setup, and creation of content management systems (CMS)
Modifying security settings to stop hacker attempts
Putting in place server-side frameworks for client-facing functionality
Offering assistance with web server technology
Application programming interface and server-side component integration (API)
Participating in all stages of the application lifecycle while putting a particular emphasis on developing and debugging
Using cutting-edge methods to improve current applications
The management and compilation of the technical and design requirements
Working with developers, designers, and system administrators to provide helpful features
Performance testing for the user interface (UI)
Resolving potential application problems
Qualifications and Skills of Backend Developer
1. Backend Programming Language
Language is the foundation of the development sector. Thus, you must have a great knowledge of it. A backend developer will construct a reliable framework and the servers that link it in this manner. If you are fluent in the backend programming language, you can achieve the needed outputs and functionality. The three main languages used by large IT companies are Java, Python, and PHP.
2. Knowledge of Front-end Technology
Now that you have a foundational understanding of backend programming languages, it's time for you to begin learning front-end programming languages. Basic HTML, CSS, and JavaScript knowledge is necessary for this position, while mastery is not essential. A programmer must be able to direct computers to communicate and use various algorithms. To use code to produce flawless results, you must have a solid understanding of the fundamental languages.
Jscript is the cornerstone of front-end programming. Thus, a backend developer has to be proficient with it. In addition, languages like JavaScript, CSS, and HTML will act as a pillar while developing scripts while working on the back end.
While CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) provides a style, colors, and layout, and HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) is the foundation of the website, just as humans have the skeleton, websites too, known as HTML, JavaScript aids in adding components and animations on a webpage which delivers an interesting experience for users.
3. Knowledge of Backend Frameworks
After choosing the language you want to focus on, you must also brush up on the framework. The framework is the language's foundation in the software or application you're working on. You could work on a few specific frameworks as a backend developer.
4. Version Control System
It is also referred to as the source control and is in charge of any sporadic modifications that need to be made. The version control system in a distinct database records every change to a code. This helps safeguard source code against situations like this and is especially useful when a developer makes a mistake and wishes to undo it.
5. Knowledge of Databases
When working on a project, you must realize that data storage is essential since they contain a lot of information. Therefore, having a solid grasp of the database is essential. The backend developer must make a relational mapping for the data to be accessible when needed. Therefore, developers employ MySQL, SQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, etc., to manage DBMS.
6. Knowledge of API
The API, or application programming interface, is in charge of creating connections between various programs. As an illustration, imagine that you are connecting to Alibaba's API while placing an order for a product using the company's mobile application. Backend developers use these APIs to link various apps and improve user experience. Developers frequently use JSON, SOAP, REST, GSON, and other common APIs.
7. Server Handling
Backend developers must be proficient in managing the server because they carry out all behind-the-scenes operations. A server is a cloud system that links other systems to network services, including file storage, database access, security, and all the important information. The information on the server is in charge of retrieving and organizing previously stored data. Docker, Kubernetes, and other top server management solutions are only a few examples.
8. DSA (Data Structures and Algorithms)
It's also advised to have a solid understanding of data structures and algorithms if you want to become an excellent backend developer. To avoid memory leaking, effective data management and retrieval are essential. DSA is crucial for programming since it is the foundation for changing, organizing, and accessing data. Before working as a backend developer, it's also critical to master data structures and algorithms because they will improve the code's efficiency and optimization.
9. Problem Solving
The individual in charge of backend development must be able to solve problems effectively because the job might be challenging. A backend developer is the foundation of any website since they are the ones that address the majority of issues and monitor whether the site is operating properly or not. If you're passionate about becoming a backend developer, you may also work to sharpen your problem-solving abilities.
10. Communication Skills
Focus is necessary when working on the backend. Otherwise, things could suffer. Having the ability to work diligently without interruption might also make you a loner. However, since you'll collaborate on several projects with other developers in a team, communication is the key to success in this position. You will also need to debate different concepts with clients, management, or coworkers. So, be ready to engage in the conversation since doing so will result in fruitful partnerships and initiatives.
Salary Range of Backend Developer
In India, a backend developer makes an average income of 7,10,000 rupees. To view backend developer salaries in your region, use the location filter.
With less than three years of experience, an Entry Level Back End Developer may anticipate to make an average annual salary of $1,48,450. A Senior Back End Developer with 10-20 years of experience receives an average salary of $8,75,600, compared to a Mid-career Back-end developer with 4-9 years of experience. The typical salary for back end developers with more than 20 years of experience is $13,26,000.
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What Backend Skills are in Demand?
You should know certain things to create a fruitful career as a back-end developer. So, here are some more skills you need to possess besides learning about C# backend developer skills:
Algorithms
- As a backend developer, you must possess in-depth knowledge about algorithms. Why? You may ask. This is a process through which a proper solution for a given problem can be determined. Hence, the lack of knowledge about the algorithm can damper your chances of getting employed as a backend developer. Let's look at the aspects that you should know about algorithms.
- You should be proficient in searching algorithms, especially Breadth-First Search and Depth First Search.
- You should know about sorting algorithms. You should know how to deal with them, insertion sort, bubble sort, quick sort, merge sort, or something else.
- Knowing about iterative and recursive algorithms is also essential.
Data Structures
The next in the line after algorithms are data structures. They are considered the essential aspect of the skills of a backend developer. This aspect forms the base for several tasks like accessing, organizing, and modifying data in programming. Here are some data structures you should know if you want to make it big as a backend developer.
- List functions
- Array operations
- Hashmap and hash tree concepts
- Operations performed on various trees
- You must be knowledgeable about popular databases. Some of them are PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB, etc. Besides, it would help if you also had a grasp on non-relational databases (NoSQL) and relational databases (SQL).
- Besides hosting the code, you should also know about SaaS or Software as a Service platform.
- You have to be proficient in version control systems such as GitLab, Git, and GitHub.
- Last but not least, a backend developer needs to have in-depth knowledge of Java, Python, and PHP. They are the most-used technologies of the current era. So, you should have java backend developer skills and others too.
Conclusion
Suppose you are interested in programming and, at the same time, are passionate about the various technologies available in the market. In that case, this is the perfect profession for you to choose. However, if this is a career path you opt for, you need to select your educational path accordingly. Then, when you gain your Backend Development skills, you can be sure to embark on your journey in a career that is not just satisfying but exciting too.
