The choice between frontend and backend depends on your skills, interests, and goals. Frontend development is responsible for the user interface and visual presentation of a web application, while backend is responsible for server logic, databases, and data processing.
If you have good design and user interface skills and are interested in creating visually appealing interfaces for users, then frontend development may be a good choice.
If you are more interested in creating application logic, working with databases, processing data, and ensuring the overall functionality of the application, then backend development may be more suitable for you. However, many developers also have experience with both frontend and backend, which allows them to create complete web applications from scratch.
Frontend
A frontend developer is responsible for what the user sees. Using embroidery as an example, they create the front, visible part. Only if the embroidery is static does the frontend developer bring the static design layout to life, turning it into a user-friendly interface. In other words, they create a functional page where you can click buttons, enter data, and so on. At the same time, they make sure that it is displayed correctly on devices and browsers.
Backend
A backend developer is responsible for what the user does not see — everything that is hidden “under the hood,” i.e., everything that runs on the server. For example, when you order an Uber, enter your address, select the type of car, and pay for the trip, the backend is responsible for the “magic” that happens on the other side. In online stores, the backend is responsible for the connection that is invisible to the user when adding items to the cart, purchasing, and paying.
Typical tasks
Frontend
Layout and creation of dynamic interfaces. This type of task dominates in collaboration with studios and freelancers. One of the most sought-after areas there is the development of standard online stores (not on an engine, if we are talking about the frontend). Small studios may assign front-end tasks to layout designers, including the creation of newsletters.
Working with SPA (Single Page Application). SPA development and the implementation of individual features are often required in product development. For example, for a banking application, this may involve the creation of a calculator, customizable charts, and currency converters.
Backend
Creating CRUD (acronym for create, read, update, delete). The simplest task. For example, if a user profile is created on the site, the backend needs to write code that will allow you to save changes, return the profile, and delete it.
Structuring, processing data, and optimizing access to it. Data obtained from the front end must be stored and processed correctly, and it must be in a correct and consistent structure. This is organized by the back end, working with databases, caches, and search indexing.
External integration. Connecting external resources, partner APIs, and so on. This involves a lot of research work: reading documentation, designing so that if a partner goes down, it doesn’t break the application.