Frontend and backend development are two distinct aspects of web design. For those just starting their journey in tech, these two ideas can often get confusing. Here at Froggy Code, we believe in keeping things simple and straightforward. So we’ve collected the facts about both frontend and backend development, comparing and contrasting them and going into the skills needed for both.
What is the front end of a website?
The frontend is the part of a website that users interact with through clicking, reading, and seeing.
What is the backend of a website?
The backend is the code of a website that lives on a server, stores data, and sends information to the screen.
There you have it, the two definitions.
Now, if you’re anything like us, you may not quite be satisfied with these two short answers. So let’s get into a little bit more detail, shall we?
Frontend, the first look at a website
When you open a website, what’s usually the first thing you notice? It’s probably the colors, images, layout, and any sort of movement (like a video or popup) that jumps out first. This is the frontend of a website in action. It’s made up of buttons, menus, pictures, content, and design that welcome the user on a given page.
Frontend skills and tools
The frontend of a website is built through a series of integrated processes. Many programmers will use HTML for structure, CSS for styling, and maybe JavaScript for the “action”. They usually work together with content writers and graphic designers, to put together a website that not only works well but also reflects their clients needs.
Designing the frontend of a new website can be quite a long process, especially for really complex and technical sites. But it’s a highly creative process that’s often rewarding, which is why many people choose to work in frontend development after completing their web design course.
Good developers will also ensure that the pages they design work well on phones, tablets, and big screens. This is essential in today’s world where we access websites much more frequently than 10-20 years ago.
What jobs can I get as a frontend developer?
The good news is many companies look for frontend developers, both in the tech field and beyond. You might work for a large multinational or a smaller agency that develops websites for a range of clients. Many frontend developers choose to work as freelancers, finding clients online or through connections.
A junior developer will probably work on smaller parts of a website first, like a sign-up form or the mobile menu. With more practice, they’ll be able to take on bigger tasks, like designing a homepage or planning the layout of an entire website from scratch.
Backend, the hidden side of websites
We like to say that the backend of a website lives behind the screen. It’s unseen, yet without it, the website would be a lifeless shell without much function. The backend stores data, checks passwords, connects clicks with the right information, records responses, and ensures that the website is functioning as it should.
Python and web design behind the scenes
Many developers choose to write the backend code for their website with Python. Python reads like plain English and is very user-friendly, but still has enough power and versatility to help power a website.
Python enables programmers to build APIs, connect a certain page to a certain database, send email alerts after a sale is made, and has tons of other functions. When the backend of a website is put together well, it ensures that the frontend shows the right information without lagging, and everything on the website integrates seamlessly.
We usually say that good backend development goes unnoticed, but bad development will jump right out at you.
Most common backend developer jobs
Common roles for backend developers include software development, DevOps engineering, security implementation, and API integration. Backend developers spend a lot of time writing server code, setting up tests, and ensuring that everything flows smoothly.
Bringing Frontend and Backend together
Almost always, a backend developer will work with a corresponding frontend team to put together the final website. Both sides are needed for a site to work smoothly and securely.
Think about your favorite texting app. The frontend of that app is what shows your messages on the screen, lets you pick an avatar, and makes the send button bright when text is ready. But at the exact same time, there is code running in the background, writing each message into the cloud, giving suggestions, and storing the data.
Both the frontend design choices and the backend server logic are necessary to power a chat app. And this is true for pretty much any website. So the next time you open your favorite app, take a moment to appreciate all the work going on in the backend that allows you to have such a great experience.
Ready to turn ideas into working apps? Explore our courses in Python, web design, and more. In a few months, you’ll be ready to start building your own sites with confidence!