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Cracking the Coding Interview|
August 11, 2023
11 mins

Cracking the Coding Interview: Insider tips

Unlock Success with Proven Insider Tips! Learn the Art of Cracking the Coding Interview and Land Your Dream Job at Google, Netflix, & Starbucks. Expert strategies revealed for your coding career triumph!

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The coding interview is crucial for testing technical prowess and problem-solving skills. It's the gateway to prestigious tech companies. Technical interviews assess your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and how well you can apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios. These interviews last for 45 to 90 minutes. While they may seem intimidating, proper preparation significantly boosts your confidence and performance.

Types of Coding Interviews

Technical Phone ScreensTechnical phone screens are often the first step in the interview process. During these interviews, you'll be asked to solve coding problems over the phone, discussing your thought process as you work through them.On-Site Coding InterviewsOn-site interviews usually take place at the company's office. You'll be given coding challenges and whiteboard problems to solve, often with an emphasis on optimizing your solutions.Take-Home Coding AssignmentsSome companies provide take-home coding assignments. These assignments allow you to showcase your coding skills at your own pace, usually within a specified timeframe.

Exploring Effective Techniques That Evaluate Your Coding Proficiency

1. Whiteboard Coding Challenges: Problem-Solving SkillsWhiteboard coding challenges stand as a traditional yet insightful approach for assessing coding proficiency. Developers are presented with real-world problems and are required to devise solutions on a whiteboard. This technique evaluates not only coding skills but also problem-solving prowess and the ability to think on one's feet.2. Pair Programming: Collaborative ExcellencePair programming brings developers together in a collaborative coding environment. This technique evaluates not only the individual's coding abilities but also their teamwork, communication, and adaptability. By sharing ideas and alternating roles, developers showcase their capacity to write clean, efficient code while maintaining effective collaboration.3. Code Review: Ensuring Quality and Best PracticesCode reviews offer a comprehensive evaluation of a developer's coding proficiency and attention to detail. Through meticulous examination, reviewers assess code readability, efficiency, and adherence to best practices. This technique not only identifies areas for improvement but also fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth.4. Algorithmic Challenges: Assessing Logical ThinkingAlgorithmic challenges provide insight into a developer's logical and analytical thinking. By solving intricate problems and optimizing algorithms, developers showcase their ability to devise efficient solutions. This technique not only assesses coding aptitude but also highlights the capacity to tackle complex computational problems.5. Automated Coding Tests: Efficient ScalabilityAutomated coding tests leverage technology to assess coding ability at scale. Developers complete predefined coding tasks within a stipulated timeframe, demonstrating their coding speed and accuracy. This technique is efficient for evaluating a large pool of candidates and identifying those who exhibit a strong grasp of coding concepts.6. Project-Based Assessments: Real-World ApplicationProject-based assessments mirror real-world scenarios, allowing developers to showcase their coding prowess within a practical context. By completing projects that simulate actual software development tasks, developers reveal their ability to create functional, user-centric solutions while considering design, functionality, and user experience.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving landscape of coding proficiency assessment, a range of methodologies has emerged to identify and nurture exceptional coding talent. From traditional whiteboard challenges to automated coding tests, each technique offers valuable insights into a developer's coding abilities and complementary skills. Embracing a multifaceted approach enables organizations to make informed decisions in recruiting, training, and cultivating the next generation of coding experts.

FAQs

How should I manage my time during a coding interview?Time management during a coding interview is crucial. Break down the problem, allocate time for different stages, and practice solving problems under timed conditions.What programming languages should I be proficient in?Focus on languages commonly used in the tech industry, such as Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript. Choose a language you're comfortable with and practice extensively.Are coding interviews only about algorithms and data structures?While algorithms and data structures are core components, interviews may also cover system design, problem-solving techniques, and real-world scenarios.How do I handle a problem I'm stuck on?Take a deep breath and approach the problem systematically. Break it down into smaller parts, try brute-forcing a solution, and discuss your thought process with the interviewer.Is it acceptable to ask for hints during an interview?Absolutely! Asking for hints or clarification demonstrates your willingness to learn and collaborate. Interviewers appreciate candidates who seek help when needed.

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Containerization And Virtualization
May 16, 2023
11 mins

Containerization vs Virtualization: Technical Differences DevOps Engineer Should Know

Technology
All

Containerization and virtualization are like twins - they look similar, but they have different personalities. Containerization is like the outgoing sibling who loves to go out and party, while virtualization is the introverted one who prefers to stay in and read a book. Containerization vs Virtualization, let's have a look at the technical differences between them.When it comes to technical differences, DevOps should know that containerization is more lightweight than virtualization. It allows for more efficient use of resources and faster startup times. Virtualization, on the other hand, provides greater isolation between applications and operating systems. It's like having your own personal bubble where you can do whatever you want without anyone interfering. Virtualization involves creating a virtual machine that runs on top of a physical server, whereas containerization involves encapsulating an application and its dependencies into a single package that can be run anywhere. So, whether you prefer dancing with containers or cozying up with virtual machines, understanding their technical differences helps you choose the right tool for your DevOps needs.

Technical Differences: Containerization vs Virtualization

Containerization and virtualization are two popular technologies used by DevOps. While they share some similarities, there are also some key technical differences between the two.Virtualization involves creating a virtual version of an operating system or application within a physical server. This allows multiple operating systems or applications to run on a single physical server, which can save space and resources. Each virtual machine has its own virtual hardware, including CPU, memory, and storage.Containerization, is a method of packaging an application along with all its dependencies into a single unit called a container. Unlike virtual machines, containers share the host operating system's kernel and resources. This makes them more lightweight compared to virtual machines and allows for faster startup times.Another key difference between containerization and virtualization is that containers are designed to be stateless and disposable, whereas virtual machines typically have persistent storage. This means that containers can be easily created and destroyed as needed, making them ideal for scaling applications up or down quickly.

Advantages Of Containerization

Containerization is a method of software development and deployment that involves packaging an application along with all its dependencies into a single container. This approach offers several advantages over traditional methods of software development.One major advantage is portability - containers can be easily moved between different environments without requiring any changes to the underlying technology stack. They also provide a consistent runtime environment, which helps to eliminate issues related to differences in operating systems or dependencies.Containers are lightweight and efficient, allowing for faster deployment and scaling of applications. They also offer improved security by isolating applications from one another and from the host system. With these benefits, it's no wonder that containerization has become a popular choice for modern software development and deployment.

Advantages Of Virtualization

Virtualization is a technology that allows multiple virtual operating systems to run on a single physical server. This approach offers numerous advantages, including increased efficiency, improved flexibility, and enhanced security.By running multiple virtual servers on a single physical server, businesses can reduce their hardware costs and energy consumption while also simplifying their IT infrastructure. Virtualization also makes it easier to manage IT resources by allowing administrators to allocate resources dynamically based on changing demand.Additionally, virtualization provides an extra layer of security by isolating workloads from one another, making it more difficult for attackers to compromise the entire system. Overall, virtualization is an essential technology for businesses looking to improve their IT operations while also reducing costs and improving security.

Use Cases For Containerization And Virtualization

Containerization is particularly useful for deploying microservices-based architectures, where each service can be packaged as a container and managed independently. This approach allows for faster deployment times, better resource utilization, and easier scaling of individual services.Virtualization, on the other hand, is often used for legacy applications that require their own operating system instances or for environments where isolation between different workloads is critical. It can also be useful for creating development and testing environments that closely mirror production environments.

How DevOps Engineers Can Leverage Containerization And Virtualization To Optimize Their Workflows

DevOps Engineers can leverage containerization and virtualization to optimize their workflows in many ways. Containerization allows for the creation of isolated environments that can be easily deployed and managed, making it an ideal solution for deploying applications quickly and efficiently. By using containers, DevOps engineers can ensure that their applications are running consistently across different environments, which is essential for maintaining reliable and scalable systems.Virtualization, on the other hand, enables multiple operating systems to run on a single physical machine. This means that DevOps engineers can test their applications on multiple operating systems without having to invest in additional hardware. Moreover, virtualization allows for the creation of virtual machines that can be used for testing and development purposes, which helps speed up the process of software development.Together, containerization and virtualization provide DevOps engineers with powerful tools for optimizing their workflows. By using these technologies, they can create more efficient and reliable systems while also reducing costs and increasing scalability. As such, it is no wonder why containerization and virtualization have become key components of modern DevOps practices.

Tools And Platforms Available For Containerization And Virtualization

When it comes to containerization and virtualization, there are a plethora of tools and platforms available for businesses and developers. Some of the most popular containerization tools include Docker, Kubernetes, and Mesos. Docker is a widely used containerization platform that allows developers to package applications into containers, making it easy to deploy them across different environments. Kubernetes is another popular option that automates the deployment, scaling, and management of containerized applications. Mesos is a flexible platform that allows developers to run multiple applications on a single cluster of servers.In terms of virtualization platforms, some of the most well-known options include VMware, Hyper-V, and VirtualBox. VMware offers a range of virtualization products that allow businesses to run multiple operating systems on a single physical server or host machine. Hyper-V is Microsoft's virtualization platform that provides similar functionality to VMware. VirtualBox is an open-source virtualization tool that allows users to create and manage virtual machines on their desktops.

Bottom Line

Both containerization and virtualization require careful planning and consideration of the specific needs of the DevOps environment in question. Successful implementation requires collaboration between developers, IT operations teams, and other stakeholders to ensure that all aspects of the process are optimized for maximum efficiency.

Start your career in Cloud Computing
May 11, 2023
11 mins

How to Build a Career in Cloud Computing 2023: Start your career with AWS

Technology
All

In today's fast-paced and tech-driven world, cloud computing has become one of the most sought-after career paths. With the growing demand for cloud computing jobs, more and more people are considering building their careers in this field. However, many individuals do not know where to begin their cloud computing journey. That's where Amazon Web Services (AWS) comes in. In this blog post, we will discuss how you can build a career in cloud computing with AWS

Step 1: Understanding Cloud Computing

Before you begin your cloud computing journey, it's essential to understand what cloud computing is and what are the different types.Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services over the internet, including storage, servers, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence. It provides users with access to these services from anywhere with an internet connection, making it a more convenient and cost-effective option than traditional computing.There are three main types of cloud computing services: Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). Each type offers different services and features, depending on the user's needs.Examples of cloud computing

  • Email: Many email services, such as Gmail, Yahoo Mail, and Outlook, are cloud-based. These services allow users to access their emails and attachments from anywhere with an internet connection.
  • File Storage and Sharing: Cloud-based storage services, such as Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive, allow users to store and share files in the cloud, making it easy to access and share files across devices and locations.
  • Social Media: Social media platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, are all cloud-based applications that allow users to connect and share content from anywhere.

Step 2: Getting to know AWS

What is AWS cloud?

AWS (Amazon Web Services) Cloud is a collection of remote computing services provided by Amazon that allows businesses to run applications and services in a highly scalable and secure manner. It offers a comprehensive range of infrastructure and application services, including computing, storage, database, networking, analytics, mobile, developer tools, security, and enterprise applications, among others. It is also a rental service which allows users to pay only for what they use, which makes it more cost-effective rather than setting up the entire infrastructure

AWS Training

There are paid and free training courses available that you can start. The AWS training and certification offers a range of courses for individuals with different levels of cloud. These resources include online courses, webinars, whitepapers, and documentation. We at Consultadd also offer an AWS training program where you Learn Cloud Computing, AWS Fundamentals and Advanced Concepts. These courses cover a variety of topics, including AWS services, architecture, security, and operations.

Step 3: Choose Your Career Path

After gaining knowledge about cloud computing, it's essential to choose a career path in this field. AWS offers a range of job roles in cloud computing, including cloud architect, cloud developer, cloud operations engineer, and cloud security engineer. Each job role requires different skills and knowledge, so it's essential to choose a career path that matches your interests and strengths.

Step 4: Get Certified

AWS offers certification exams to help individuals validate their skills and knowledge in cloud computing. These certifications are recognized globally and can help individuals stand out in the job market. Certifications are available to individuals in a variety of fields, including AWS Cloud Practitioner, AWS Solutions Architect, AWS Developer, AWS SysOps Administrator, AWS DevOps Engineer so on and so forth.

Step 5: Gain Hands-on Experience

After gaining knowledge and certification, it's essential to gain hands-on experience in cloud computing. Individuals can gain hands-on experience by working on real-world projects, attending hackathons and meetups, and contributing to open-source projects.

Frequently asked Questions

How much do AWS Jobs Pay?

The pay for AWS jobs can vary depending on the specific role, location, level of experience, and other factors. However, in general, AWS jobs tend to offer competitive salaries due to the increasing demand for cloud computing skills. Here are some average salaries for common AWS jobs in the United States, according to data from Glassdoor and Payscale:

  • AWS Solutions Architect: $130,000 to $180,000 per year
  • AWS Cloud Engineer: $90,000 to $150,000 per year
  • AWS DevOps Engineer: $110,000 to $170,000 per year
  • AWS Developer: $95,000 to $135,000 per year
  • AWS Technical Account Manager: $115,000 to $160,000 per year

It's important to note that these figures are just averages and can vary widely depending on several factors, including the individual's experience, location, and the specific job requirements. It's always a good idea to research the market in your area and the specific job requirements to get a better idea of what to expect in terms of pay.

Does AWS Require Coding?

AWS (Amazon Web Services) offers a wide range of services that can be used to build and deploy applications, and some of these services may require coding skills. However, AWS itself does not necessarily require coding skills, as it is a cloud computing platform that can be used by developers, IT professionals, and businesses of all kinds.That being said, having coding skills can be highly beneficial for working with AWS, as many of the services, such as AWS Lambda or AWS Elastic Beanstalk, require some level of coding knowledge to set up and use effectively. Additionally, many AWS job roles, such as AWS Developer or AWS Solutions Architect, require coding skills as a core competency.While coding skills are not strictly required to work with AWS, they can be highly valuable for taking full advantage of the platform and pursuing careers in AWS-related fields. If you are interested in working with AWS, it is a good idea to at least have a basic understanding of programming languages such as Python or Java and some basic skills of shell scripting is an add on.

Is cloud computing a good career?

Yes, cloud computing is a rapidly growing field and can be a great career choice for those interestedin technology and innovation. Cloud computing has transformed the way businesses and organizations manage their IT infrastructure and services, leading to increased demand for professionals with cloud computing skills and experience.Overall, cloud computing can be a promising career path for those interested in technology and innovation, with a range of opportunities and advantages for those who develop the necessary skills and experience.

Where to start AWS Training?

There are several ways to start training for AWS (Amazon Web Services). Here are some steps you can take to begin your AWS training:

  • Explore the AWS website: AWS provides a range of free resources to help you learn about its services and offerings, including tutorials, whitepapers, documentations and blogs. Start by exploring the AWS website and reviewing the various services and solutions that are available. But keep in mind that using these services might cost you if used excessively.
  • Take online courses: There are many online courses available that cover AWS, including free and paid options. Some popular platforms for AWS training include Udemy, Coursera, and A Cloud Guru.
  • Participate in hands-on training: AWS offers a range of hands-on training options, including AWS Classroom Training, AWS Virtual Training, and AWS Bootcamps. These options provide hands-on experience working with AWS services in a guided environment.

Conclusion

Building a career in cloud computing requires dedication, time, and effort. However, with AWS's free training resources, individuals can gain the necessary skills and knowledge to kickstart their cloud computing journey. Understanding cloud computing, choosing a career path, getting certified, and gaining hands-on experience are essential steps to building a successful career in cloud computing. With the right mindset and determination, anyone can build a career in cloud computing with AWS's free training resources.

Become a good junior developer
May 9, 2023
11 mins

7 Qualities of a good Junior Developer

Technology
All

You have landed your first Junior Software Developer Job, and in a couple of weeks, you realize that you are behind the pack, have imposter syndrome, and don't know how to improve as a Developer. Worry not. You are not alone. Like every novice, you have to pick a few habits and stick to them, and soon you will realize the Sun is Shining, and you will hopefully never have to see the shadows.So now, let's look at a few fundamentals, tips, and secrets that will help you develop your resume for a Junior Software Developer

Step #1: You don't have to know everything.

There is no Junior Software Developer Job that requires you to be a full contributor until about six months. Usually, when a junior developer is hired, their aptitude is more important than their experience. They know you will not be a full contributor immediately. They are looking for someone who thinks the right way; they will teach you what you need to know.The first several months are simply spent teaching you how our architecture and millions of lines of code work. The fact that they are providing you with training is a plus! Why would they spend time and money training someone they do not believe has potential?  You don't need to be in panic mode and worry all the time.

Step #2: Select a path and follow it

There are multiple languages and frameworks that you can learn, these languages boost your resume for a junior software developer job. But trying to learn everything at once will make your learning process slow and messy. It is a relatively inefficient method of learning. Ideally, you should concentrate on one language at a time, pick a path or group of technologies, and stick to it. Learn JavaScript, CSS/HTML, and choose a framework if you want to be a front-end developer. Similarly, if you desire to be a Backend developer, pick a language and stick with it.Instead of jumping from one technology to another, narrowing your concentration and becoming a pro in one is a better and more effective learning approach.

Step#3 Ask Questions

Don't be afraid to ask questions. People are often hesitant to express inquiries for fear of embarrassing themselves in front of team members. In actuality, not asking questions will harm you since you will miss out on many opportunities for learning and growth. Always be inquisitive. It is the responsibility of senior developers to teach and guide. No one will think less of you or judge you for asking questions; if they do, the workplace is probably unhealthy. Many developers are enthusiastic about what they do and are often happy to share their skills or offer assistance.

Step#4: Keep up with what's going on in the industry.

Being up to date with the newest issues, modern technologies, or libraries will be beneficial for building a resume as a junior software developer. It is an excellent way to explore new tools for approaching a new functionality or project. You do not really have to master or attempt anything new, but you should be aware that they exist. You can inform your Seniors about the recent updates that they may have missed and build a relationship with them.And to acquire all of these updates, you can follow accounts on Twitter, listen to the latest podcasts, and subscribe to active tech newsletters which frequently share these latest updates and findings.

Step#5: Communicate

Restate your expectations to ensure they are clear. Give a status update when you discover anything is incorrect. When you violate or break a code, take immediate responsibility and do not blame others. Your superior or manager will be overjoyed. Set a time limit for how long you are willing to work on a problem before seeking assistance. These measures can help you identify a better solution that you may have overlooked or alert the entire team to a major problem that they may be able to prevent.

Step#6: Be Humble and keep your ego in check.

The opposite of having Impostor Syndrome is the Dunning-Kruger effect, which occurs when people are too confident in their abilities and think they know it all. A Junior developer with no experience, assuming he knows everything because he's fresh from school, is hard to like. Don't believe you already know everything. Don't strive to attract attention to demonstrate your knowledge. Everyone knows you're a freshman. They know how much you know and tailor your duties to reflect that. It is acceptable not to know everything and accept that you are here to learn, which is what being a Junior is.Nobody wants a junior developer with an enormous ego. The first step toward success is to leave your ego at the door. Thinking you know everything is the most consequential resistance to your progress, and you will not improve or evolve until you erase your ego.

Step#7: Exercise

As a developer, most of your day, you will be sitting, staring at the screen, trying to figure out the right way to solve a problem and whatnot. And if you won't keep a check on your health and body, it will undoubtedly catch up to you and affect your future. Having a healthy body has an overall positive impact on your career and life in general. You don't have to run marathons or Squat 250 lbs. You can do basic exercises every day or, maybe to your liking, run marathons and Squat 250 lbs; why not.

Conclusion

Also, remember getting a junior software developer job is easy, but it is the determination and hunger to learn that keeps you going. In between al the chaos you should also try to take some time off as well. Work can get heavy at times but taking leaves and doing other activities you enjoy will help you ease your mind. Besides that, as a novice, be persistent, do not subscribe to any philosophy or opinion dogmatically, and be humble.That's it. This is the end. We hope you find this blog useful and take something from it.

Internet pros and cons
April 10, 2023
11 mins

Connecting Everything with the Internet

Technology
All

"Hey, toaster, you've been feeling a little left out lately. Here, have some Wi-Fi. Now you can browse the latest bread recipes and tweet how crispy you are."And this is not the future, this is now!We've got smart homes, smart cars, smart fridges, and even smart toasters. All these smart devices, which are working on the internet are forming their smart ecosystem for us humans to lessen our robotic work so that we could allot our life to intellectual things. Which, humans are considered to be born.

The Pros: How IoT Is Revolutionizing The Very Way The World Is Functioning

The vast array of IoT devices makes it possible for us to benefit from many interconnected technologies that have the potential to improve our daily lives.

Increased Work Efficiency

From automating home chores to ensuring safety in public spaces, the IoT opens the doors for creating smart cities and smart homes. IoT has always helped us become more efficient and connected.From the implementation of IoT devices, they have always proved to be a reliable assistance to us humans. And hence, the applications of IoT have found their way into every field that humans are exposed to.

Reduced Human Employment Costs

Knowing the AI and IoT abilities will make us go "whoa"! However, understanding them will make us think about what our abilities as a human ought to be. Well, AIs are here to reduce human-robotic work. That which can be done by a bot should be left to a bot. No matter how efficiently humans can perform a bot task, humans are meant to under-perform their abilities and hence the AIs are employed to reduce human efforts. Also, AIs and IoT devices require lesser maintenance costs than humans demand to maintain their livelihood. Hence, applications of IoT and AI have largely saved the purpose by efficiently reducing the cost.

Bettering Life Quality In Every Way

Imagine a field, a device, or an application that’s existing today without an AI or IoT and is yet functioning effectively. Within less than a decade, technologies like AI and IoT have made their way into our day-to-day lives.At present, there are 100 million devices connected across the internet to work in coordination, seamlessly and flawlessly. Individuals and organizations are together accepting and encouraging this internet connectivity because of its trait of making our lives easier and better.

The Cons: Why We Should Be Concerned

IoT Connectivity Affects The Environment and Health Largely

When it comes to cons, health is always an attribute of concern despite any technology’s merits. IoT is a Network of Physical Devices that Connect Through Wireless Technology and hence it requires communication through radiation continually. This has been raising the issues of IoT impacting the environment and health largely. Reports and studies are mentioning, IoT accesses and interfaces through radioactive radiation that causes threats to the environment and health. The radioactive and communication technologies include RFID, WiFi, Bluetooth, Wireless Sensor Devices, and other real-time tracking devices.

IoT is NOT Monitored or Supervised By Any Human

While zero human intervention and interpretation is considered the largest merit of the IoT ecosystem, which is at the same time considered the biggest threat too. Debates are happening on the dependency on IoT devices and there are several questions raised on the ethics of the same. The capability of IoT devices and ecosystem needs to be improved in deciding the privacy limit. There are concerns raised where people have experienced getting ad notifications for the products/services that they have just discussed with their family and friends. This is because IoT sensors are found to record people’s voices and process them. No matter how smart these devices are getting, at last, they are things and not real humans. And hence, there’s still doubt about to what extent could we be dependent on the internet of things.

Security Risks That Hackers May Exploit To Cause Severe Damage

The internet connectivity of everything that is around us has not hampered our privacy, but these things are having our data of banks and personal information. Hackers are introducing us to new spam every single day. As technology is getting stronger and smarter; so are the hackers. The risk of losing our data and access to things is the largest as of today. Our computers are PCs, and our mobiles are of course personal ones; but with IoT, even our homes are shaping to become personal ones. However, the threat of stilling the data is constant on all the devices that are getting smart. Cyber security and cyber laws are becoming more effective and yet there’s no guarantee that these devices are cent percent reliable.

Bottom Line

We need to be careful not to let our refrigerators start posting selfies though. We don't need any more influencers out there. Some people get excited at the thought of smart fridges and self-driving cars, while others worry about their things controlling them as if their senses weren't enough already!When the bots and the internet eventually take over, at least they'll be able to coordinate seamlessly. However, the more devices we connect to the internet the more vulnerable we become to the ethical implications of IoT. As the boons of IoT are beyond our imaginations, so are its banes.

A guy looking for coding challenges on a desktop|best coding challenges
January 23, 2023
11 mins

8 Best Coding Challenges to Build Your Skills in 2023

Technology
All

As a programmer, you want to be a specialist. But have you ever thought about how someone may be regarded as a proficient coder?So, let's say a guy wants to be the best racer. Can he achieve this by only practicing? Not at all; all he needs to do is prove himself, defeat the opposition, and win the battle. Similarly, if you want to be the best software programmer or the best software developer, you must overcome obstacles and demonstrate your programming abilities. Competitive programming and coding competitions are the best approach to do so.Best Coding Challenges or contests allow you to assess your skills and competency while also allowing you to compare yourself to other programmers from around the world. Aside from that, the participating programmers are offered a variety of scholarships, prizes, jobs, and internships.These coding challenges are held on a regular basis by a number of platforms (or websites). Below is a list of the top 7 Coding Challenges websites, along with a brief description.

1) The ACM-ICPC International Collegiate Programming Contest

The ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) was founded in 1970 at Texas A&M University and is one of the best coding challenges a budding software developer can participate in. The Alpha Chapter of the UPE Computer Science Honor Society hosted the event. The competition promotes creativity, collaboration, and invention in developing new software programs, as well as allowing students to put their abilities to perform under pressure to the test. Simply said, it is the world's oldest, largest, and most prestigious programming competition.

2) TopCoder

TopCoder is quickly establishing itself as the premier programming competition league. TopCoder members compete online once a week (Single Round Match) and twice a year both online and on location (Tournaments). Their annual programming and design competition is known as the Top Coder Open (TCO).TopCoder users are very good competitive programmers who compete in the best coding competitions on a regular basis. The TopCoder community like software developers or software programmers takes on challenges from some of the world's most well-known companies, including IMB, Google, and eBay.

3) International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC)

One of the most well-known competitive programming competitions is the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC). From 1977 to 2017, however, ICPC was hosted under the auspices of ACM and was known as ACM-ICPC. The ICPC events are team competitions, and each team must consist of three students representing their university, according to the rules. Local Contests, Regional Contests, Regional Championships, and the World Finals are among the competitive levels offered by the ICPC. The ICPC regionals begin each year with local competitions among classmates to choose who will represent their university, and the final regional challenge determines which teams will advance to the World Finals.

4) Coding Competition by Google

Google Code Jam is an annual programming competition in which contestants are given a set amount of time to solve challenging algorithmic challenges. Programmers are free to use any programming language they like. This competition begins online, where programmers can practice solving tasks from previous years.Google Hash Code is a global best-coding competition for teams of students and professional software developers. The top teams will then be invited to the Final Round at a Google office.Google Kick Start is a worldwide online coding competition that features three-hour rounds of algorithmic challenges created by Google developers. These competitions take place throughout the year, and winners may be invited to an interview at Google.

5) BME International 24-hour Programming Contest

Challenge 24 is an international 24-hour programming competition. The most essential aspect of this competition is that contestants can use their own computers. This allows individuals to work in the atmosphere that is most comfortable for them.Operating systems, development tools, and programming platforms are also unrestricted. Only the top 30 teams are invited to the 'real' BME Challenge 24, which takes place in Budapest, Hungary. This competition is organized by the Hungarian Association of Electrical Engineering Students.

6) The International Obfuscated C Code Contest

In 2020, the International Obfuscated C Code Contest will celebrate its 25th anniversary. The contest can be entered via email or online. All you have to do is follow the guidelines and write the most obscure or obfuscated ANSI C programs in less than 4096 characters.

7) Code Forces

Codeforces is a Russian website that offers competitive programming tournaments in which a large number of competitive coders fight against each other from all over the world. Codeforces contests allow you to write solutions to challenges that are tested during the competition. The software developer or software programmer who passes that set of solution tests gets the chance to look over the sources of other contenders, look for errors, and suggest tests where these solutions don't work. As a result, you can hack or challenge other people's answers to get points. The solutions that pass the pretests and have not been hacked or challenged are then tested on the final set of tests following the contest.

8) Microsoft Imagine Cup

The Microsoft Imagine Cup has been running for nearly two decades. This program challenges participants to tackle real-world problems submitted by IGOs, NGOs, and non-profits, which they can subsequently tackle as part of the Imagine Cup project. Then, as you design solutions that have the potential to alter the world, put your ideas into action.The Imagine Cup winner will receive cash prizes, an Azure Grant, and a mentoring session with Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. The 2022 Imagine Cup will mark the 20th anniversary of the competition, and students can submit ideas in the areas of Earth, Education, Health, and Lifestyle.

Conclusion

Programming necessitates a great deal of patience. Begin competing in various programming competitions and gradually enhance your skills. Showcase your rating on your CV to increase your chances of securing a job at a top tech firm.With all that said, if you have just started coding, then the initial step would be to practice your code immensely before jumping into a competition to be a skilled software programmer.You can also get in touch with us for a free career consultation or take part in our Free IT training programs.

how to become a Successful Backend Developer written over it|Coding Jobs in USA
January 3, 2023
11 mins

How to Become a Backend Developer in 2023

Technology
All

Do you know that, on average, a Backend developer in US makes $133,000 yearly? It is one of the highest-paying developer roles in the world. Maybe you are in for the passion. Maybe your passion is the $ itself, or maybe you are bored and just want to learn something new.Irrespective of your cause, this blog introduces Backend development and guides you on how to become a Backend developer.

#Step 1: What is Backend Development?

Knowing what duties fall under "How to become a Backend Developer" is a major confusion for newcomers. Also, how does it vary from Frontend Development?Let’s address the query.When you visit a website, everything you see and interact with is part of Frontend development also referred to as client-side or browser-side development. It covers how the content is present on the website, including minor user interfaces elements like menus, dropdowns, transitions, and models.On the other hand, Backend Development deals with code that runs on the server. It is all the behind-the-scenes stuff that happens on the servers that the user never sees and focuses on securing and managing the data. The quality of the user experiences a website provides depends on Backend programming.For example, a Backend developer would write the code that interacts with the database to get a list of images, and the Frontend dev. would write the code that displays the photos in a gallery with a slideshow.Handling Website design, building templates, CSS, HTML, javascript, etc., are generally considered Frontend. Working with Databases, APIs, web development, PHP, and related languages are all considered Back end.

#Step 2: Understanding the Roles and Responsibilities of a Backend Developer

With Backend, Power comes responsibilities. Let’s look at some of the roles and responsibilities of a Backend Developer:

  • Supporting existing Backend.
  • Creating and maintaining web applications with clean codes.
  • Working with Frontend Developers to define goals and integrate user-facing aspects with server-side logic.
  • Developing and Maintaining APIs.
  • Management of hosting environments.
  • QA testing.
  • Troubleshooting and fixing bugs.
  • Development of site architecture using appropriate methodologies.

#Step 3: Learning Backend Development

Everyone starts somewhere, don’t worry if you’ve never coded before. Here is a roadmap on how you can become a Backend Developer.Here are the steps you will need to follow:

  • Learning the fundamentals of the Web

Understanding the fundamentals of the Web is essential. Get familiar with HTTP, DNS, Browsers, Domain, Hosting, etc., and understand how they work.

  • Basic Frontend Development

It’s important to know how Frontend development works. Knowing even the basics can help ease your process of mastering and understanding Backend development.You can start by learning CSS and HTML.

  • Learning a Programming Language

Knowing how to code is essential for a Backend developer. Choose a programming language and learn the fundamentals of programming language:

  • Variables
  • Functions objects
  • Data types
  • Core principles of OOPS
  • Execution.

Some Popular Programming Languages for Backend Development are JavaScript, PHP, Python, Ruby, and C#.

#Step 4: Learning a Backend Framework

A framework is a well-organized collection of tools and libraries that assist you in accomplishing tasks in a specified manner, sometimes with less code.For example, if you’ve built websites with PHP and MySQL, you’ve probably worked with SQL queries to retrieve data from a database. You can use frameworks to query databases without having to write SQL queries. So, learning a framework will help you develop Backend applications faster.There are several Frameworks available. You can choose a framework depending on the programming language.Some popular Backend frameworks are Node.js, Django, Ruby on Rails, ASP.NET, and Laravel.

#Step 5: Databases

A database is a system for classifying and storing data.There are two types of Databases.SQL - SQL databases store the data in tables.SQL databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, SQLite.NoSQL - NoSQL databases store data in a document.NoSQL databases: MongoDB, CouchDB, DynamoDB.Developers like to argue about SQL and NoSql and which is better, but it’s like arguing about Coke and Pepsi. They’re both good for different reasons, and in many cases, either will do.

#Step 6: APIs

Application Programming Interface. It allows you to access the data from another application and is a way for applications to communicate with each other.A Backend with API helps developers to interact with Backend services and applications, which helps them improve the user experience on the website. Some of the APIs to learn are: REST, JSON, AES, GSON, SOAP, XML-RPC.

#Step 7: Advanced Topics

Once you understand the programming language, frameworks, databases, and APIs, you get a good understanding. You will come to advanced topics like Hashing, Caching, Web Security, Web servers, Rate Limiting, Backend Testing, etc. Learning never stops. And it should never stop. Learning is a continuous process, especially in web development.

Level Up

After you’ve finished all these steps, it’s time for practice. Being a good developer takes time; getting used to languages, frameworks, concepts, etc., doesn’t happen overnight.Learn by doing. Start developing projects on your own. Nothing will improve you as a developer than building a project from scratch.

Get a Job

Get a Job or an internship. Depending on your command, that can be an entry-level job or an advanced position. You will gain experience on real projects backed by an organization which is ideal for a new learner.

There you go. You are a Backend Developer now.

Soon you will have the confidence and proficiency with Backend development. Now depending on your goals, you can become a freelancer. Or build personal projects. Or continue working for an organization. We wish you all the luck!

Want to Kick start your career? We’ve got you covered! Connect with our team now.

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