How to Become a Backend Developer - A Complete Guide

What Is a Backend Developer?

There are essentially two components to web development—backend and frontend. When a visitor lands on a website, what they initially see and experience are the efforts of frontend development. The average internet user gives little thought to what goes on behind the scenes of web development, but that doesn’t mean that a backend web developer’s role is any less critical. The quality of user experience a website provides is dependent upon backend programming. 

Read more: How to Become a Front End Developer

A backend developer’s role is to focus on details like building an effective website architecture, scripting, and writing code that serves as a means of communication between the website's database and the browser the site visitor is using. 

For those who choose backend development as their career, daily core responsibilities include:

• Forming an understanding of the performance needs and goals of the website to develop effective, successful solutions
• Development and management of APIs
• Developing systems for websites to accept and securely store data, such as those required for payment processing systems 
• Writing code, testing, and development solutions for code-related issues (maintenance)
• Development of site architecture using proper methodologies of the product life cycle, such as Agile Scrum and framework
• Organization of system logic 
• Providing solutions to system problems

Are Back-end Developers in Demand?

Back-end developers are a kind of task force who are entirely responsible for everything that happens behind a website or software. According to a survey conducted by HackerEarth, a developer hiring platform, back-end developers have topped the list of in-demand jobs. So, it is visibly apparent that a skilled back-end developer is always in demand.

How to Become a Back-end Developer?

One needs hands-on training in many facets to emerge as a successful back-end developer. Here, let's have a step-by-step idea about how to become a back-end developer.

Step 1: Learn a Programming Language

Programming language is the language through which the developer can command the computer. A back-end developer needs to have knowledge of the programming languages. There are plenty of programming languages like C, C++, Java, etc. Choose one and start learning it. Understand every single step and technique. Focus on one language at a time, develop the skill, and practice.

It is a bonus if a back-end developer knows more than one programming language. Recently Python has led the list of programming languages.

Step 2: Get a Clear Idea About the Data Structure and Algorithm Basics

Data structures and algorithms are the absolute phenomena behind any application or software running. So, it is quintessential for a back-end developer to have a clear picture of the basics of data structures and algorithms.

Step 3: Learn Frameworks

Frameworks are a template where the developer can add, edit and alter the coding according to their needs. Although learning a programming language helps the developer to write any code, learning and using a framework is a time-saving way where you can use the same framework for multiple purposes. It cuts off rewriting the code every time.

Step 4: Learn the Database Concept

A database is a kind of storage zone and a structured data storage that can be accessed electronically. 

Learning about the database is vital for back-end developers because it is the vault where they store the data through their programming language.

Step 5: Hands-on Training

Theoretical knowledge will never suffice in any field. The developer can not understand the techniques and formats behind any programming language until they practice it. Write your code and run it in the coder. Analyze the errors.

Following its start developing small apps like notes app, etc., 

Step 6: Ideate and Develop.

With enough practice, create unique ideas and develop them into any software. It is always better to start by modifying the existing software's algorithm and understanding the modifications' output.

Once done, start developing your idea and add it to your portfolio.

Step 7: Launch Your Idea

Now it is time for the developer to make their product available online like any cloud service that provides www. access. Pitch your product to multiple companies and bag your back-end developer job.

What Skills are Required in Backend Development?

Backend development is the backbone of web applications, responsible for creating the server-side logic that enables seamless functioning. To thrive in this dynamic field, developers need a comprehensive set of skills that go beyond coding proficiency. Let's explore the key skills required in backend development.

Proficiency in Backend Programming Languages

Backend developers must master various programming languages, each with unique strengths and applications. From the versatile nature of Python to the scalability of Java, a breakdown of PHP, Java, Python, Perl, Ruby, and Node JS is essential. Understanding the evolution of these languages is crucial, as it sheds light on their relevance in modern web development.

Foundational Understanding of Front-end Web Technologies

While backend developers primarily focus on server-side operations, a solid grasp of front-end technologies, including HTML and CSS, is imperative. This foundational knowledge enhances collaboration with front-end developers and ensures a holistic understanding of the web development process. Real-world scenarios will illustrate the significance of this knowledge in creating cohesive and efficient web applications.

Experience with Databases

Databases are the storage vaults for web applications, making proficiency in managing and utilizing them a fundamental skill. This section will delve into the significance of databases in backend development, explore the differences between relational and NoSQL databases, and provide practical guidance on optimizing database performance for efficient data storage and retrieval.

Knowledge of Frameworks

Frameworks are powerful tools that streamline development processes, enhance efficiency, and contribute to code maintainability. Backend developers need to understand the role of frameworks and be familiar with popular ones associated with each programming language. Insights into how frameworks operate and their advantages will be highlighted to emphasize their importance in backend development.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

Analytical thinking is at the core of backend development, aiding developers in tackling complex issues efficiently. This section will discuss the importance of analytical skills and present real-world problem-solving scenarios commonly encountered by backend developers. Practical tips will be offered to help developers hone their analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

Areas of Work for Backend Engineers and Developers

Backend developers can find career opportunities in a variety of industries and locations. Some backend developers work exclusively with one company, while others work for agencies that specialize in web development for their clients. Beginning a career in this field requires learning the various aspects of server-side language and gaining an understanding of the other tools used daily. It’s also recommended that you seek an entry-level position to gain practical, hands-on experience. 

Employers who hire backend developers tend to value a mixture of relevant education, updated skills training, and practical experience in the industry. A passion for learning new technologies is a significant plus in the web development industry. Those who move up the ranks toward senior backend developer positions often possess a strong knowledge of frontend development. If you’re interested in a fruitful career in this field, starting with backend development training is the first step. Moving on to frontend, or full-stack development certification is an important future step for optimizing your career opportunities. 

Salaries and Career Prospects for Backend Developers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career outlook for web development is favorable, as the industry expected to grow much faster than average. As with most web development careers, location can make a big difference in terms of average salary.

According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a web developer in the United States is $75,487 per year, with specializations leading to a higher average salary. Top cities where web developers earn more than the national average include San Francisco, Seattle, New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Those who pursue additional training and education to become full-stack developers are typically able to command higher salaries. 

To give you a sense of how fast the field of web development—including backend developers—is growing, consider the fact that there were approximately 148,500 positions for developers five years ago. Looking ahead five years into the future, that number is expected to grow to an estimated 188,000. This is substantial growth, which indicates a promising future for those who are just now getting their foot in the door of web development. 

Becoming Skilled in Backend Web Development

Those who are interested in becoming backend developers should have some degree of experience or education in web development technologies. With a beginning background and a basic understanding of web development technologies, leaping backend programming and development is as simple as taking a comprehensive certification course. 

Simplilearn offers such a course with their Full Stack Web Developer–MEAN Stack Master’s Program. This course is designed to help you advance your career as a web developer. When taking this course, you’ll master the elements of becoming a backend developer, as well as those involved in frontend technologies. Taking a course like the one offered by Simplilearn is a surefire way to set yourself on the fast track to career success. 

This comprehensive course will help you understand precisely what backend developers do. You’ll gain a practical, hands-on skillset in thorough Node JS certification training, Angular training, MongoDB developer training, and the fundamentals of JavaScript, among other tools. 

This course is perfect for anyone interested in becoming a backend engineer or expanding their knowledge of full-stack development to enhance their income earning potential. The MEAN Stack Developer Master’s Course is ideal for any professional or student with an interest in learning MEAN Stack, web developers, IT project managers, and entrepreneurs who want to develop a skill set to effectively handle their web development. 

Choose The Right Software Development Program

This table compares various courses offered by Simplilearn, based on several key features and details. The table provides an overview of the courses' duration, skills you will learn, additional benefits, among other important factors, to help learners make an informed decision about which course best suits their needs.

Program Name	Automation Testing Masters Program	Full Stack Developer - MEAN Stack	Caltech Coding Bootcamp
Geo	All	All	US
University	Simplilearn	Simplilearn	Caltech
Course Duration	11 Months	11 Months	6 Months
Coding Experience Required	Basic Knowledge	Basic Knowledge	Basic Knowledge
Skills You Will Learn	Java, AWS, API Testing, TDD, etc.	HTML, CSS, Express.js, API Testing, etc.	Java, JavaScript, Angular, MongoDB, etc.
Additional Benefits	Structured Guidance Learn From Experts Hands-on Training	Blended Learning Program Learn 20+ Tools and Skills Industry Aligned Projects	Caltech Campus Connect Career Services 17 CEU Credits
Cost	$$	$$	$$$$
	Explore Program	Explore Program	Explore Program

Begin Your Learning Path with Simplilearn Today

Are you ready to take your web development career to the next level? Get your foot in the backend development door by learning the skills you need to fuel fast growth along your career path! We encourage you to contact Simplilearn to learn more about our Full Stack Web Developer - MERN Stack program today. 

If you have any questions or queries, feel free to post them in the comments section below. Our team will get back to you at the earliest.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to become a back-end developer?

It usually takes three months to four years to become a back-end developer depending on the skill set needed to be acquired. A coding boot camp can be an immediate option to become a back-end developer. But four-year degree courses will land the developer in a better position.

2. Is it hard to become a back-end developer?

No, if the person is interested in programming and its skills, they can become a back-end developer. It might take time, but it is not more challenging.

3. Do I need a degree to become a back-end developer?

No, it is not necessary. Anyone with the knowledge and skills related to programming can become a back-end developer.

4. Which language is used in back-end development?

Multiple programming languages are being used in back-end development. The most common use programming languages include Java, Python, SQL, Ruby, PHP, etc.

5. How much does a back-end developer make?

The salary range of a back-end developer is from 2 lakhs to 20 lakhs. The average annual salary of a back-end developer is around 7 lakhs.