If you’re new to the coding world and software engineering, terms like “front-end” and “back-end” development may be puzzling. Also, when you see programming languages like Python and JavaScript, you may be confused.
So, here’s a quick poll. Raise your hand if you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “What is the difference between the frontend developer and the backend developer?” We understand because we were there once.
At Gini Talent, we believe that a career in tech is possible for anyone who is willing to learn and put in the effort to master the art of coding. So, let’s clear up the confusion about some of these technical terms.
In this article, we will discuss the following topics to help you understand the distinctions between backend and frontend developers:
- What is web development?
- What is front end development?
- Who is a frontend developer?
- What are the skills of a front-end developer?
- What is backend development?
- Who is a back-end developer?
- What are the skills of a back-end developer?
- Frontend vs. backend developer: Key differences
What is web development?
Basically, web development is the process of creating a website on the internet. Web development is the non-design aspect of a website that includes using programming, markup, and scripting languages to create features and functionality. Developers are responsible for the technical aspects of creating a website, such as designing the layout, programming, and integrating applications and graphics. Web development includes frontend development and backend development.
What is frontend development?
Frontend development is a type of computer programming that focuses on the coding and creation of website elements and features that will be visible to the user. In short, what you see and interact with on your browser is the frontend of a website. It includes everything the user sees directly, from text and colors to buttons, images, and navigation menus. It is also referred to as “client-side.”
Who is a frontend developer?
Frontend developers are in charge of implementing visual components on a website. They also handle important website development tasks like navigation, buttons, and anything else that contributes to the website’s overall visibility. They also contribute to the overall design and aesthetic, as well as debugging.
So, let’s say you’re a front-end developer. This means that your job is to code and bring the visual elements of a website to life. You’d be more concerned with what a user sees when they visit a website or use an app. You’d also want to make sure the site is simple to use and runs smoothly.
What are the skills of a frontend developer?
Frontend developer skills include a strong understanding of scripting languages such as HTML, JavaScript, and CSS3. You must master these three languages if you want to work as a front-end website developer.
Nevertheless, the most important frontend developer skill is proficiency in JavaScript. JavaScript, which works with both CSS and HTML, is used in a variety of applications, including the date and time.
Working as a front-end developer also necessitates knowledge of JQuery, Ajax, UI (User interface), UX (user experience), and frameworks such as AngularJS, EmberJS, Foundation, and Backbone.
What is backend development?
Backend developers are responsible for server-side development. They concentrate on database design, scripting, and website architecture. These developers also keep an eye on how the site works and how to make changes and update all of the behind-the-scenes functionalities.
For example, assume you own and operate a social media website. You’ll need an accessible place to store all of your users’ information. This storage center is called a database, and a few widely used examples include Oracle, SQL Server, and MySQL. A database is managed by a server, which is essentially a remote computer. A back-end developer will help manage this database and the website content it holds.
What are the skills of a backend developer?
- Frontend developers build how a website looks, whereas backend developers build how a website works.
- Frontend developers are in charge of visual website components, whereas backend developers are in charge of server-side development. They concentrate on database design, scripting, and website architecture.
- Frontend web development languages include HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, while backend programming languages include PHP, Java, Ruby, Python, and Node.js.
- Frontend developers need to know how to work well on the design and UI/UX of a website or app, while backend developers need to be able to implement algorithms and solve problems with the system.
| Frontend | Backend | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Frontend developers are in charge of implementing visual components on a website. | Backend developers work on server-side development. They concentrate on databases, scripting, and website architecture. |
| Skillset | Frontend programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. | Back-end programming languages like PHP, Java, .Net and knowledge of database, Server, API, etc. |
| Aim | Frontend developers must ensure that the website is accessible by all users. It is responsive in all views, including mobile and desktop. | Backend developers need to create and support an application based on the front-end. Furthermore, they must ensure that the website opens and functions properly. |
| Must have skills | They should be able to work effectively on the design and UI/UX of a website or application. | Back end web developers must be capable of implementing algorithms and solving system-related issues. |
On the ending note,
Understanding the distinctions between frontend and backend developers is essential for newcomers in the coding world. Frontend developers focus on implementing user-facing features and visual elements using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, while backend developers handle server-side development and database design with languages like PHP, Java, Ruby, Python, and Node.js.
Mastering coding opens up a world of opportunities in tech, and at Gini Talent, your leading recruitment agency in Turkey, we believe that with dedication and effort, anyone can pursue a successful career in this field.
