As a back-end developer, you should have a solid foundation in the programming languages like PHP, Python, Java, .Net, and Ruby. Apart from these languages, back-end developers should have good knowledge of Servers, Databases, and APIs. Let's take a look at each of these skills in detail:
1. Python
Python's architecture focuses on the concept of classes and objects, meaning it is an Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) language. Companies like Spotify, Uber, Instagram, and Dropbox have set up their back-end using Python. Python is one of the most popular languages due to its simplicity in using frameworks and providing excellent data visualizations. Not only is it easy to use the syntax but also easy to learn the language. Thus, encouraging newcomers to master the language in no time. Indeed, strong Python skills are one way of getting back-end developer jobs.
2. PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor)
PHP is an open-source scripting language used for building dynamic websites and improving performance for an application. Unlike Python, PHP is used as a server-side language to interpret scripts or programming instructions. Companies like Hootsuite, Viber, and Facebook use PHP for their back-end. One of the commonly used functions of PHP is to collect and store user information securely. Due to its built-in support for MySQL and familiarity with most web hosting servers, it is cost-effective. Back-end developers well versed with PHP appeal to have a versatile profile and a good understanding of web development. If you are looking for remote back-end developer jobs, make sure you are good with PHP.
3. Java
Much like Python, Java is also an Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) language. However, it has earned the reputation of not being a beginner-friendly and complex language. However, Java is regarded as the most popular programming language among developers due to its high convenience and security. Most of the e-commerce giants rely upon Java to build their back-end. Java is capable of handling robust programming tasks and makes database connectivity and networking easy. Most of the in-demand back-end developer jobs require you to have Java skills on the tip of your fingers.
4. DBMS technologies
Every back-end developer needs to know about Database Management Systems. The ability to navigate and manipulate databases defines the expertise of a back-end developer. There are two types of databases in use - SQL and NoSQL. SQL allows developers to create new tables and store procedures in a database. To navigate through a relational database, insert, delete or file queries, SQL is a must. NoSQL stores data differently than relational databases and is capable of storing relational data. With NoSQL, there is no need to structure the data beforehand.
5. Application Programming Interface (APIs)
API is the medium that enables data transfer. They are the mediators between the back-end and databases to acquire the user data. APIs allow different servers, clients, and users to communicate on the internet. JSON and XML are the two most commonly used API formats. Every back-end developer should be able to transfer data via APIs.
6. Algorithms and Data Structures
As a back-end developer, you must have the ability to solve complex problems using logic. As a result, a strong understanding of algorithms and their functionality sets you apart from the crowd. Every back-end developer must have a firm grasp on quick sorting, bubble sorting, selection sorting, searching, and iterative algorithms. If you are looking for a seamless career trajectory, it is inevitable for you to have your data structure knowledge in place. Hashmap, hash tree, array operations, list functions are a few of the data structures every back-end developer should know well. Learning about data structures gives you the foundation to access and modify data in programming, making your job effective and easy. So if you are passionate about programming and interested in building cutting-edge technologies, back-end developer jobs are the most suitable for you. With efforts, training, and sheer perseverance, you can become one of the best back-end developers every organization needs.