Best backend frameworks for web development in 2022

Backend developers are responsible for building the server side of the application. Compared to frontend development, backend development is more demanding in terms of multi-functionality and complexity, yet developing the backend infrastructure for applications is becoming simpler. This is because of the availability of new web development frameworks.

Any development project can be divided into frontend and backend development. With many frameworks available for backend development, which one will you choose? 

This article lists the best backend frameworks for web development in 2022. 

1. Django

For Python developers, one of the best backend frameworks for application development is Django. You can build database-driven, complex, high-performance websites using Django with resource optimization.

Maintaining all the core functionalities of Python, this framework is known to be very scalable for enterprise-level applications. Its code reusability makes it easier for developers to adjust according to the increasing traffic of the website as you can balance the traffic load easily. Another factor that works in favor of Django is its SEO-oriented architecture. Search engine optimization is an essential aspect of web development, and any backend framework should have options to set SEO elements. When you use Django for backend development, you do not have to worry about SEO-friendliness as you can easily maintain Django-based applications via URLs rather than IP addresses.

The Python community is large with over 10 million members, which is why Django has extensive community support. Any backend developer can take a no-code approach, as there are prebuilt packages available that developers can use to integrate functionality in Django. It gives it the versatility to develop database-driven websites with diverse functions.

2. Spring boot 

Java is one of the most widely used backend development programming languages. It is also an essential skill for backend developers. Spring framework is what most Java developers have used for backend development since 2002 when it was first released. Most enterprises prefer building production-grade standalone applications using Spring framework and Spring Boot.

Modern backend development is shifting towards Spring Boot because it significantly minimizes the need for various configurations, unlike Spring framework. It is an excellent backend framework with built-in functionalities like caching, configuration management, transaction management, monitoring, and security. Additional frameworks work with Spring Boot, such as Spring Cloud and Spring Security.

3. Express.js

Express.js is a backend framework that is built on Node.js. You can use this framework for @web and mobile applications if you know JavaScript. However, Express.js is not a no-code platform like other modern backend development frameworks. You need to have good command over the JavaScript development programming language to start building with it.

However, because of its incredible performance, Express.js is used to run the most prominent applications on the internet, such as Uber and MySpace. Express.js comes with prebuilt templates that help you create web pages faster, and it has the most standard functionalities of Node.js. Debugging is much more efficient in Express.js because it can identify the specific part of the code where the bug is located. It shares the scalability of Django, enabling backend developers to expand infrastructure as their application size grows. Furthermore, you can use the same programming language (JavaScript) for backend and frontend development.

If, as a backend developer, you are more comfortable with JavaScript, this is the perfect backend framework for you to start building scalable applications.

4. Laravel

PHP is used more than any other programming language for backend development. Almost 77% of websites use PHP as a server-side scripting language. Any backend developer must know PHP, and to build a backend framework faster, they can use Laravel. 

It’s an open-source backend framework that is designed explicitly for MVC architecture. Most PHP developers use Laravel for symphony-based web application development. There are several reasons to choose this PHP backend framework. Firstly, it offers unmatched security features like the Bcrypt Hashing Algorithm for creating passwords. Second, you can use hundreds of built-in templates to create layouts and content in Laravel. Also, other than PHP, this web development framework supports CSS and JS code. As a PHP developer, if you are looking for a backend framework for complex projects, then you can trust Laravel. However, this framework might be unsuitable for beginners since it’s too complicated to manage for simpler tasks. For instance, for simple form validation, you need to write separate functions.

Conclusion 

The requirements from backend development are increasing, but the availability of modern backend frameworks simplifies the development. All the backend development frameworks listed here offer great functionality and features to build complex applications. Choose the right one depending on the server environment, the programming language of choice, and your understanding of the project requirements.

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Node.js vs. Django: How to pick the right development tool

A good web app or website interacts with users seamlessly, attracting them and keeping them engaged. This makes choosing the right developing tool a critical first step. However, this is no simple task, especially when you have to choose between two equally resourceful, robust, and popular technology stacks. 

Node.js is a JavaScript-based cross-platform that can run on both the client and server sides. On the other hand, Django is a Python-based cross-platform that eliminates repetitive tasks, enabling speedy and agile web app development.

Both Node.js and Django are popular open-source frameworks, replete with unique features and functionalities. Choosing between the two can be difficult. To make a sound decision, take a look at this comparative analysis of the two frameworks and make a decision that best suits your needs.

Django

Django is a free, python-based web development framework that is open-source and designed on the model-view-controller architecture. This enables you to develop a powerful back-end to your web application speedily. 

Popular web apps developed using Django

  • YouTube
  • Bitbucket
  • Spotify
  • Mozilla
  • Instagram
  • Dropbox
  • Disqus

Advantages of Django

  • Django is a resourceful framework that is not only easy to implement but also easy to learn. Anyone with basic knowledge of Python can master this framework in no time.
  • Django offers several in-built frameworks that enable the quick and easy development of web applications.
  • It offers strong security provisions. 
  • Its resourceful framework is capable of running several complex and high-level processes. 

Disadvantages of Django

  • While easy to learn and implement, Django is extensive and requires several lines of code. It may become infeasible for websites with low bandwidth.
  • Django is ideal for big, interactive, feature-heavy web applications. The performance of a small website with fewer features based on the Django framework deteriorates over time.
  • The framework can only support single-layered applications. 
  • Django is not built to handle numerous individual requests simultaneously.

Node.js

Designed in 2009, the Node.js framework is based on C, C++, and JavaScript. Similar to Django, Node.js is an open-source platform, using which you can write on the client and server-side. The code is accessible outside the web portal, making Node.js a light and fast tool to build scalable network applications.

Popular web apps developed using Node.js

  • eBay
  • Medium
  • Uber
  • PayPal
  • NASA
  • Netflix
  • LinkedIn

Advantages of Node.js

  • It is a flexible and robust framework used to develop both the front-end and back-end of a project.
  • Node.js helps develop platforms that can be scaled both vertically and horizontally.
  • It is easy to use with minimum complications.
  • Node.js is a popular web development tool that has a widespread global community. As such, it is easily accessible and promotes easy troubleshooting.

Disadvantages of Node.js

  • It requires highly skilled web developers.
  • Its API changes frequently, resulting in effort-intensive code changes.
  • Node.js is not as secure.
  • It does not support coordinated programming, making it complicated for many developers.
  • It cannot handle intricate CPU-based tasks.

Decoding how Node.js and Django are different

Architecture

Node.js

Node.js has a single-thread event loop architecture that helps build high-end applications with fewer reloads and overhead time. Furthermore, it has an asynchronous, non-blocking request handling architecture. This helps develop a robust application that can process multiple service requests without delays, resulting in a quick response to user requests. 

Django

It has a Model-template-view architecture that enables faster web app development. In Django, you can work on multiple modules simultaneously, which speeds up coding and web development. Moreover, its component-based framework facilitates flexibility. Changing a single component does not require extensive changes throughout the application. 

Performance

Node.js

The more resources at your disposal, the faster the web development process. Now, Node.js is stifled regarding resources. Though the framework uses the V8 JavaScript engine to optimize single-thread, it is not as agile and fast as multiple threads.

Django

Being a Python-based framework, Django inherits its high performance due to multi-threads. It also offers data optimization and app caching, further improving its performance.

Security

Node.js

You have to add security features to a web app developed using Node.js, as it does not offer default security features. This makes your web app developed using Node.js susceptible to security attacks like SQL injection, Cross-site Request Forgery, and Cross-Site Scripting.

Django

On the other hand, Django is replete with security features like SQL injection protection, Clickjacking protection, Cross-site Request Forgery protection, and Cross-Site Scripting protection.

Complexity

Node.js

Node.js is based on a single language ― JavaScript. This makes it easy to work with. Moreover, it has no restrictions on developers, allowing them to solve problems their way.

Django

In Django, developers have to work in a set pattern, making it complex to resolve any problems.

Customization

Node.js

If you seek complete control, then Node.js is the ideal companion. It offers you full control with its feature-laden customizable technology. You can choose and build everything from how apps look to how they will function.

Django

Django has a Model-template-view based architecture, which curbs its flexibility regarding customization. Despite being replete with a vast library and template database, it cannot build highly customizable apps from scratch.

Full-stack development

Node.js

Node.js is a JavaScript-based framework that offers both front-end and back-end development, making it the most preferred framework for full-stack development.

Django

Django does not offer any full-stack development capabilities.

Which developing tool should you choose?

Your choice of developing framework can define the success or failure of your web application. While both are robust and highly advanced frameworks, choosing one comes down to your web-app requirement and your preference. Using the above-mentioned information regarding various parameters, make an informed decision that aligns with your project requirements.

For example, if you require a web app with tight security features and have a short development window, choose Django. On the other hand, if you want to build a highly flexible, feature-heavy, and customizable web app, opt for the Node.js framework.

Remember, there is no wrong answer here! Choosing the one that helps deliver a successful project is pertinent. With enough experience and learning, you can make the right choice and deliver highly satisfying projects. These are the makings of a developer innovating at leading and renowned companies.

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