Web Developer and Software Developer: What’s the Difference?

Jan Feliciano

April 25, 2023

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In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for any business looking to succeed. But with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. One of the key decisions you’ll need to make is whether to hire a web developer or a software developer. While both roles involve developing software, there are some key differences you need to be aware of. In this article, we’ll explore what those differences are, which option is best for your business in 2023, and the best way to hire web developers or software developers for your needs. 

First, let us define each of these development roles.

What is a Web Developer?

A web developer is someone who specializes in building websites and web applications. They are responsible for creating the look and feel of a website, as well as ensuring that it functions properly. Web developers work with a variety of programming languages and frameworks, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP. These developers also have different tech stacks, such as MEAN (MongoDB, Express, Angular, Node.js), MERN (MongoDB, Express, ReactJS, Node.js), XAMPP (Cross-platform, ApacheHTTD, MySQL, PHP), Django stack (Python and Django),  and RoR (Ruby, Rails).

Web development is a subset of software development, so a web developer is considered a software developer who only builds web applications. 

Types of Web Developers

There are three main types of web developers:

  • Front-End Developers: Front-end developers focus on the user-facing aspects of a website, such as the design and layout. They use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create responsive and visually appealing websites.
  • Back-End Developers: Back-end developers work on the server-side of a website, handling tasks such as database management and server-side scripting. They use languages such as PHP, Python, and Ruby to build the functionality of a website.
  • Full-Stack Developers: Full-stack developers are proficient in both front-end and back-end development. They have a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of web development and can work on all aspects of a website.

Key Web Developer Skills

To be a successful web developer, you need to have a range of skills, including:

  • Proficiency in programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
  • Understanding of web development frameworks such as React, Angular, and Vue.js
  • Knowledge of database management systems such as MySQL and PostgreSQL
  • Experience with version control tools such as Git
  • Ability to create responsive and accessible web designs
  • Knowledge of SEO best practices

What is a Software Developer?

A software developer is someone who creates software applications for a variety of platforms, such as desktop, mobile, and web. They work with a range of programming languages and frameworks, depending on the specific needs of the project. Since some software developers can also be web developers, some of them have technical know-how on different web stacks and may have a main tech stack. 

Types of Software Developers

There are many different types of software developers, including:

  • Mobile App Developers: Mobile app developers create applications specifically designed for mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. They work with programming languages such as Java, Swift, and Kotlin.
  • Game Developers: Game developers create video games for a variety of platforms, such as consoles, PCs, and mobile devices. They work with programming languages such as C++ and Unity.
  • System Developers: System developers work on developing operating systems and system-level software, such as device drivers and firmware. They use programming languages such as C and Assembly.

Key Software Developer Skills

To be a successful software developer, you need to have a range of skills, including:

  • Proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++
  • Knowledge of software development methodologies such as Agile and Scrum
  • Understanding of software design patterns and principles
  • Familiarity with development tools such as IDEs and debuggers
  • Ability to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code
  • Experience with testing and debugging software applications

Which is Better to Hire in 2023?

So should you hire a software developer or a web developer?

When it comes to deciding between hiring a web developer or a software developer in 2023, it really depends on your specific needs. If you are looking to build a website or web application, a web developer would be the better choice. They specialize in creating user-friendly and visually appealing websites that are optimized for search engines. On the other hand, if you are looking to create a software application for desktop or mobile devices, then a software developer would be the way to go. They have the expertise to develop high-quality software applications that meet your specific requirements.

It’s also worth noting that full-stack developers have become increasingly popular in recent years. These developers can work on both the front-end and back-end of a website or application. This makes them a versatile choice for businesses looking to develop a comprehensive web application.

Where and How to Hire Web Developers and Software Developers

If you are looking to hire developers, there are a number of options available to you. One option is to use online job boards and freelance marketplaces to find and hire developers. However, this can be time-consuming and there is no guarantee that you will find a software developer or web developer with the specific skills you require.

Another option is to work with an offshore software development outsourcing company like CoDev. CoDev has a pool of experienced and highly skilled web and software developers who can help you build the perfect solution for your business needs. We provide businesses not only with the exact, pre-vetted development talent they need but also a comprehensive outsourcing service that includes payroll, HR and IT services, benefits, training, and more for their development team. By working with CoDev, rest assured that you will receive complete, reliable, high-quality development services at a reasonable cost.

In conclusion, web developers and software developers are two different types of developers who specialize in different areas of software development. While web developers are better suited for building websites and web applications, software developers are better suited for developing software applications for desktop and mobile devices. Full-stack developers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to work on both the front-end and back-end of a website or application.

If you are looking to hire web developers or software developers, there are a number of options available to you. However, we think that the best option is to work with an offshore software development outsourcing company like CoDev. With CoDev, you can be assured of high-quality development services at one reasonable monthly fee.
If you are a small or medium-sized business looking to hire web developers or software developers, we encourage you to get in touch with CoDev today. Our team of experienced developers will work closely with you to understand your specific need/s and build the perfect solution for your business.

Jan Feliciano

Jan Feliciano

Jan Feliciano, a full-time content marketer with 10+ years of total writing experience, has worked in different production environments centering on the B2B space. He dives deep into complex topics and distills them into digestible yet engaging content pieces.

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