Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology. What does this mean? In simple terms, a blockchain is a secure transaction ledger database shared among peer nodes. An identical copy of the database is maintained on each node in the network. Each node can act as an administrator to keep the database and validate new transactions.
Blockchain has become a buzzword in the technology sphere. It is an emerging technology that holds great potential to transform business operating models in the long term. However, the technology is still relatively new and not many people understand it. And since blockchain technology is used in many sectors, from crypto finance apps like OKX to manufacturing and government, there’s a high demand for skilled workers.
The increasing demand and high salaries attached to blockchain developers have led to increased online courses that teach people how to become one. If you want to become a blockchain developer, there are several things you’ll need to know.
Learn the basics of blockchain
The first thing you need to do is get familiar with blockchain technology. Learn what a blockchain is and how it works. You can start by studying some popular blockchain networks like Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum.
This will help you understand the concept of blockchains and Distributed Ledger Technology. You’ll have to learn how it works and why it’s so popular. This will help you understand what problems it can solve and how. Check out a list of resources for beginners, and make sure you read the guide to the differences between bitcoin and blockchain.
Choose a programming language and learn to code.
Next, learn a programming language that you can use to build smart contracts. Several programming languages are used in blockchain development, depending on the type of project. C++, Java, Go, Solidity, Python is among the most used ones. Make sure you choose the one that is best suited for your project!
If you want to build apps on the blockchain, you need to be a software developer first. So read programming books, watch YouTube tutorials, take online courses, and do side projects.
Develop your smart contract
Now, you can start developing your smart contracts. There are several online platforms where you can write code for your smart contract and execute it to test its functionality, like Remix IDE on Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). You can also use other IDEs like Truffle IDE or Dapp IDE for Solidity development. Alternatively, you can also set up your environment using tools like Ganache CLI or Ganache GUI (the graphical user interface version) by Truffle Suite.
Customize your online presence
You should create an online portfolio to showcase your projects and skills. Create your profile on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and other social media websites. This will make it easier for recruiters to find you when they search for potential candidates!
Learn data structures and algorithms
Even if you’re not applying for a role as a Blockchain developer, this will always be useful in an interview or project. Try doing some Leetcode questions to practice! Some of the best are Reverse Linked List, Two Sum, Longest Substring Without Repeating Characters, Merge Two Sorted Lists, Valid Parentheses.
Check out job postings.
Look at job posting sites like AngelList or LinkedIn to find some openings that might interest you in this field!
