What Software Do Web Developers Use?

As you consider becoming a Web Developer, you should know what software to learn. This article will familiarize you with some of the critical software applications central to web development, what these programs are for, and how to learn them. The tools discussed in this article are Visual Studio Code, Git, Node Package Manager, and WordPress.

Like most technologies, web development is constantly evolving. Web Developers will likely use different software in the future than the programs they originally learned in their training. It’s important to be flexible, keep on top of new developer trends, and be open to learning new software as needed.

What is a Web Developer?

A Web Developer builds websites and web applications for companies or clients who hire them to create a product that serves a specific purpose. They are responsible for meeting the project objectives while providing a positive experience for the end user. Web Developers write and test the product’s code and are often responsible for maintaining performance and capacity. 

Various specializations fall under the Web Development umbrella. A front end developer focuses on the visual elements of a website or application—that is, the interface that the end user sees and interacts with. A back end developer designs and creates the site’s behind-the-scenes structure and functionality. However, the type of web developer most desirable to employers is a full stack developer with front-end and back-end development skills.

Web developers may work solo or as part of a team, often depending on whether they are freelance or work full-time for a particular company. Almost any business in any industry needs a web developer, but whether they have a web development team or hire a freelance developer will depend on their circumstances. Businesses need web developers because having an online presence increases their client base. Many businesses also need web developers because they want to connect with potential customers through their own web applications. 

Read more about what a Web Developer does.

What Software Do Web Developers Use?

Visual Studio Code

The use of code editors is the trend among developers today, and Visual Studio Code is the most popular. A code editor helps programmers see their code structure through live parsing, auto-completes code, checks for errors, and allows the use of expandable code snippets. Using a code editor is vital for a Web Developer, and Visual Studio Code is the industry standard. It’s also easy to learn and intuitive, which makes it a perfect choice for beginning Web Developers.

Git

Another critical skill for a Web Developer is version control. You always want to be able to restore your code to a previous version in case you do something irreversible. So, you must save each version as you go. Git is the tool you need for this process. Git also enables you to collaborate on code with fellow developers, so you can work on the same code without disrupting what the other is trying to accomplish. Other version control systems exist, but Git and its repository, GitHub, are industry-standard.

Node Package Manager

Most web development roles involve JavaScript, so a skilled Web Developer will be adept at using the key frameworks and libraries available for that language. These include frameworks like React, Express, MongoDB, and Node.js. When using Node.js, it’s helpful to have mastered Node Package Manager (NPM), a command line tool for managing Node.js packages within your application. Use it to install, update, or uninstall packages as needed. NPM is also an online repository for Node.js packages made by developers worldwide, which you may find helpful as you build your JavaScript code. 

WordPress

WordPress is an open-source content management system for websites; knowing how to use it is essential for Front End Developers. WordPress is the most popular website and blogging tool for nonprofessionals, but it’s also frequently employed by professional Front End Developers. The most significant advantage of WordPress is that it allows developers to use its many useful built-in features, saving them code-writing time. WordPress is an excellent option for personal websites or even small business sites. However, for Web Developers, WordPress is necessary as a time-saving tool, but it is not sufficient for creating custom web applications, especially if your goals and the structures supporting them are complex.

How to Learn Web Development Software

Several options are available for learning web development software. Self-study is affordable but deprives you of the guidance and structure provided by other learning methods. Most students pursue the study of web development software through on-demand, live online, or in-person methods. Each of these methods has its particular advantages.

On-demand study is the most affordable option for gaining practical training in web development software. These courses are pre-recorded and are helpful for learning the basics. On-demand learning offers the most flexibility to fit your schedule, so these courses are an excellent choice for those especially busy. However, this method has a fundamental drawback: it lacks real-time access to an instructor whose expert guidance can ease and expedite your learning process. 

Most students find the interaction of live online instruction a more engaging way to study web development software. Courses are taught in real-time by expert instructors who provide answers to your questions, feedback on your work, and guidance as you proceed in your studies. Some students also discover that learning with others—even virtually—motivates their studies. Live online instruction also provides a structure of schedules and deadlines, making it easier to keep your studying on track. However, a self-paced study using on-demand materials can better fit students who are self-starters with busy schedules.

If you thrive with more social interaction, in-person web development software training might be the right choice. The best motivator for some students is the unique classroom experience of bonding with your teacher and classmates. In-person learning also provides excellent networking opportunities, and with an instructor right there, it prevents roadblocks to learning caused by technical difficulties. Most in-person courses provide modern equipment and current industry-standard software, making your studies easier and more affordable since you don’t have to purchase the software.

The main drawback to in-person learning is that it is generally offered in metropolitan areas. So, if you don’t live a commutable distance from a large city, you may not have in-person options for studying web development. If that’s the case, the best instruction method is live online training. Even if you can opt for in-person classes, the idea of commuting to class may be unappealing. Some students also find the social aspect of in-person training distracting, preferring to learn from home where they can focus. Conversely, the limited social interaction offered by live online courses may make them less stimulating for some students. And studying online in real-time always includes the possibility of a computer or internet issue getting in the way of your work. 

Other Skills Needed to Become a Web Developer

In addition to knowing how to use the appropriate software and possessing the requisite technical abilities, several other skills benefit a Web Developer. Among these are the “soft skills” of communication, organization and time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The ability to communicate clearly, efficiently, and respectfully is vital for Web Developers. If you are working on a team with other Developers, you’ll need to be good at sharing your ideas and constructively responding to others’ ideas. Even if you work solo as a contractor or at a small business, your communication skills may be even more critical because you’ll be “translating” the technical language of your work and communicating critical concepts to laypeople.

Learn the Skills to Become a Web Developer at Noble Desktop

To become a Web Developer, you must learn specific skills critical to the job. Noble Desktop can help you build these skills through in-person or live online instruction. Either way, you’ll have access to expert instructors who can clarify issues when you are confused, provide feedback on your work, and guide you through becoming a Web Developer. Small class sizes and the option to retake any course for free once you’ve completed it are additional incentives for studying with Noble Desktop.

Noble offers several relevant certificate programs demonstrating your Web Developer skills and qualifications to share with potential employers and support you in your job search. Completing the software engineering certificate gives you the broadest qualifications and career path options. If you are primarily interested in developing for the front end, consider the front end web development certificate. JavaScript is becoming increasingly popular for web development, so completing the certificate in Javascript will boost your resume. Opt for the full stack development certificate if you're interested in front end and back end programming. And if you prefer behind-the-scenes programming, pursue the certificate in Python development.

If you’re a beginner in web development, Noble’s hub of articles and resources on web development is a great place to start and plan your learning path. Noble’s web development courses are excellent if you’re eager to start learning but not yet ready to commit to a full certificate.