Comprehensive Guide to Web3 Development in 2024

The term “Web3” is often used to describe the next internet iteration, built using blockchain technology. Momentum around Web3 development has registered a significant uptick since 2018, leading to increasing demand for Web3 developers. Becoming a Web3 developer requires proficiency in programming languages such as Solidity and JavaScript and a strong foundation in blockchain technology.

This guide, according to BNB Chain Blog, is your gateway to understanding Web3 development and becoming a key player in shaping the future of decentralized applications.

Understanding Web3 Development

A Web3 developer plays a crucial role in Web3 development. Web3 developers are software developers specializing in building dApps (decentralized applications) using blockchain technology. They must possess a strong understanding of cryptography, distributed technology, and blockchain technology and be experienced in object-oriented programming, agile methodologies, software development, and programming languages such as Solidity, Web3.js, and Truffle. Additionally, they must be familiar with decentralized technologies such as OrbitDB and IPFS (Interplanetary File System).

Web3 developers are required to work on several projects, including decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, NFT marketplaces, supply chain management solutions, and identity verification platforms. They must also develop new blockchain protocols and platforms and integrate existing systems with blockchain technology.

Skills Required To Become A Web3 Developer

As mentioned earlier, Web3 development involves the creation of dApps using blockchain technology and decentralized applications. Therefore, a Web3 developer needs to acquire a specific set of skills.

Familiarity with Web3 tools - Web3 developers must be highly familiar with the Web3 stack. This includes tools and applications such as Remix, Metamask, Truffle, and more.
Knowledge of cryptography - Web3 developers must understand cryptography and concepts like public and private keys, digital signatures, and encryption.
Governance and consensus mechanisms - A familiarity with governance and consensus mechanisms like Proof-of-Stake, Proof-of-Work, and Delegated Proof-of-Stake.
Knowledge of blockchain technology - Web3 developers must have a deep understanding of blockchain technology.
Coding skills - Web3 development requires strong coding skills and mastery of programming languages such as NodeJS, HTML/CSS, and JavaScript.
Smart contract development - Web3 developers must be proficient in smart contract development.
Familiarity with decentralized infrastructure - Having advanced knowledge of decentralized infrastructure concepts such as IFPS, Whisper, and Swarm is crucial.

Starting A Career In Web3 Development

Starting a career as a Web3 developer requires a substantial amount of learning and practice. However, with the right skills, you can build a successful career in Web3 development. Here are some steps that can help you start your career as a Web3 developer.

Learn the Basics of Blockchain Technology - A deep understanding of blockchain technology is critical if you want to become a Web3 developer. You can take courses in blockchain technology, read books, and watch videos to learn how it works and its underlying principles.
Attend Networking Events - You can attend networking events to connect with other Web3 developers and learn about new technologies. You can also attend hackathons where you can collaborate with other developers to build innovative projects.
Learn Solidity - Learning Solidity is crucial if you want to become a Web3 developer because it is the programming language used to create smart contracts on Ethereum. There are several tutorials and online courses that can help you learn Solidity. Additionally, you can also refer to the Solidity documentation.
Contribute to Open-Source Projects - Building your own programs and contributing to open-source projects are excellent avenues to showcase your skills. Start by building simple dApps and smart contracts. Once you have enough experience, you can contribute to open-source projects.
Good Programming Foundation - Web3 developers work with an array of programming languages, so a strong foundation in programming is crucial. Start by learning programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and C++.

Transitioning Into Web3 Development

Traditional developers may need help transitioning into the role of Web3 developer. However, it is significantly easier for those already working with Web3 companies. Some of the reasons for this are listed below.

Access To Internal Training Resources - Working with a Web3 company gives you access to internal resources like mentorship programs, online courses, and other training material. These resources can help you build your skills in Web3 development.
Company Support - If you transition into a Web3 developer role within the company itself, you can receive guidance from senior developers in the company. Additionally, you can also take advantage of resources and mentorship programs.
Familiarity With Processes - Familiarity with the company processes makes it easier to adapt to a new role.
Existing Understanding Of Company Services - An existing understanding of a company’s products and services is valuable when transitioning into the role of a Web3 developer within your existing company.

Programming Languages Used In Web3 Development

Solidity is the most common programming language used in Web3 development. It is a high-level, object-oriented programming language similar to JavaScript and is specifically designed to write smart contracts on EVM platforms. However, it is not the only language used in Web3 development. Vyper is another programming language used to write smart contracts on Ethereum, while platforms like Polkadot support C++, Rust, and AssemblyScript.

Web3 developers also use JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and TypeScript to build front-end applications to interact with blockchain networks. Ultimately, programming languages used in Web3 development depend on the project requirements and the blockchain platform used.

BNB Chain’s Comprehensive Support For Web3 Development

The Web3 ecosystem is constantly evolving as it develops the next iteration of the Internet. With Web3 developers in demand, this is an excellent time to begin your career in Web3 development. Several promising projects looking for talented and experienced Web3 developers have emerged in the Web3 ecosystem.

In its endeavor to support the larger Web3 ecosystem, BNB Chain offers comprehensive pre and post-deployment support, supporting promising Web3 projects with an array of docs and initiatives, some of which have been discussed below.

Pre-Deployment Support

BNB Chain offers Web3 projects pre-deployment support via regular hackathons, its BIA Incubation Program, the MVB Accelerator Program, and Builder Grants.

BNB Chain hosts quarterly hackathons. The best projects receive cash prizes and the chance to enter BNB Chain’s BIA incubation program.
Handpicked projects are selected for the BIA incubation program. The best projects from the BIA are invited to enter the MVB Accelerator Program.
The MVB Accelerator Program offers several benefits for builders and Web3 projects wanting to grow and innovate within the BNB Chain ecosystem. The program has strict eligibility criteria and only 2% of applicants are selected. Winning projects get access to grants, resources, and exclusive support.
Projects that perform exceptionally in the MVB are eligible for BNB Chain’s Builder Grants, with each project eligible to receive up to $200,000.
BNB Chain wishlist is a good reference for developers to explore the most demanding use cases to build.

Post Deployment Support

BNB Chain’s post-deployment support includes incentive programs, access to strategic partnerships, collaboration with industry leaders, extensive support, and a LaaS program.

BNB Chain regularly organizes incentive programs for projects within its ecosystem. Incentives are typically tied to total value locked (TVL) milestones, daily active users, and trading volumes.
BNB Chain attracts several high-value strategic partners, including CoinMarketCap’s accelerator program and CMC Labs. Such associations allow projects to explore connections and collaborations and build on strategic partnerships.
Projects can work closely with BNB Chain core contributors and developers. Additionally, they also receive support from the BNB Chain ecosystem.
Projects will also receive advisory support and comprehensive assistance to navigate the complexities of building on the BNB Chain. They also receive access to various resources, tools, and a tailored curriculum to achieve long-term growth.

BNB Chain’s Launch-as-a-Service (LaaS) program offers a free and comprehensive support package to help projects launch and grow their dApps within the BNB Chain ecosystem. This includes infrastructure, security, treasury management, and business growth services.