Back-end Developer

What does it mean

Back-end developer is the backbone of every web application or mobile application. While the front-end developer shapes what the user sees and interacts with in the browser, the back-end developer designs, builds, and maintains everything that happens behind the scenes – on the server, in the database and in internal systems. It is he who ensures data processing, execution of business logic, and smooth communication, which makes the digital product functional and secure.

More info

Imagine adding a product to the cart, registering, paying, or filtering search results in an e-shop. These complex operations are managed and processed by the back-end.

So what does a back-end developer do in practice from a technical perspective?

• Server and database management: Configures and maintains server environments (such as Apache, Nginx) that host web applications. Designs database schemas and manages relational databases (e.g., MySQL, PostgreSQL) or NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB, Cassandra) for efficient storage and retrieval of data about users, products, orders, and other entities. Often optimizes SQL queries and database indexes for maximum performance.

• API Development (Application Programming Interface): Creates RESTful APIs or GraphQL APIs that serve as a communication bridge between the front-end and back-end. These APIs define how data is requested, processed, and returned in formats like JSON or XML, enabling interaction with the application.

• Implementation of business logic: Writes robust and efficient code in programming languages like Python (with frameworks like Django, Flask), Java (Spring Boot), PHP (Laravel, Symfony), Ruby (Ruby on Rails), or Node.js (Express.js). This code defines rules for user authentication, payment processing, inventory management, report generation, and other key application functionalities.

• System security: Implements security measures to protect against vulnerabilities (e.g., SQL injection, Cross-Site Scripting). This includes data encryption, managing authentication (e.g., OAuth, JWT), and authorization of access to sensitive information. Monitors and responds to potential security threats.

• Performance optimization and scalability: Analyzes system performance using code profiling and server monitoring tools. Optimizes algorithms, data caching, and database operations to minimize latency and ensure high availability even under increased load. Designs architecture that allows easy scaling of the application.

• Collaboration and integrations: Works closely with front-end developers to define API structure, with product managers to understand requirements, and with QA testers to identify and fix bugs. Integrates external APIs for payment gateways (Stripe, GoPay), CRM systems (Salesforce), analytics tools (Google Analytics), or cloud services (AWS, Azure).

• Deployment and infrastructure management: Often involved in deploying applications to servers using tools like Docker, Kubernetes, and version control systems (Git).

Without a robust, efficient, and secure back-end, no modern digital service could exist. The work of a back-end developer is critical for the reliability, performance, and overall functionality of your digital product, which directly impacts user experience and ultimately conversions and success in online marketing.