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Top Programming Languages for Blockchain Development
From the growth of social media in the last decade to the explosion of e-commerce, technology is constantly pushing the envelope and making way for the next big thing. One of the most promising developments in recent years is Blockchain technology. If you’re interested in cryptocurrency or decentralized software or looking forward to Web3, there’s a chance you may have heard of it!
As this new technology continues to develop, it’ll require a new workforce of developers skilled in specific programming languages to lead the way. If you’re interested in working with this breakthrough technology, learn more about Blockchain and popular programming languages used for its development below.
What is Blockchain Technology?
First, let’s demystify Blockchain. This technology is essentially a digital ledger of transactions that isn’t owned or controlled by anyone. It stores information in blocks — when a block is full, it transfers data stored to a different block. This creates a chain of linked blocks that can be seen and accessed by anyone with a private key. This transparency, across such a big network, also means Blockchain is relatively difficult to hack.
Because Blockchain technology is decentralized, meaning it isn’t owned by anyone, it eliminates the need for a third party to manage it. This allows complete transparency between its users. If a financial institution like a bank were involved, transparency would be lost. In essence, as a decentralized technology that’s transparent and secure, Blockchain is a technology we may soon see across different implementations including healthcare and voting.
Programming Language Options
Blockchain technology has only been around since 2009. Yet, as soon as it appeared, developers set off to create different platforms for its use. This ranged from cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, to the development of a new internet known as Web3. Because every platform uses different programming languages, there are many options. However, this means if you want to decide on a programming language to learn for developing Blockchain, you’ll have to also consider the types of projects you expect to work on.
Top Blockchain Languages
As we break down these programming languages, it’s important to remember many of them were already popular due to their prowess in different areas across tech. For instance, JavaScript has been known as one of the most dynamic programming languages and used in the development of Google, YouTube, Facebook, Amazon, and other tech giants.
Top Blockchain Programming Languages
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Python
Python has an English-like syntax (think of it as grammatical rules) that makes it easy to learn and simple to use. Add versatility across platforms and an ability to handle big data stored into the mix and you have a great option for Blockchain development and object oriented programming. Python has been deployed in projects such as Steem, Hyperledger Fabric, and NEO.
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C++
Widely regarded as a “general-purpose” language that can be used in different situations, C++ is often preferred due to its ability to scale difficult applications and get them running much more efficiently. Not to mention, its speed, power, and other characteristics were crucial in the development of perhaps the most widely known cryptocurrency to date: Bitcoin.
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C#
Created by Microsoft as an update to C++, C# is widely used by software developers to build code across multiple operating systems, such as Windows, Android, and Mac. It has an extensive code library and an easier version control than its predecessors. Some of the most popular Blockchain projects that used C# include Stratis and NEO.
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GO
Google’s Go (sometimes known as Golang) can often be found in the development of backend projects. Its similarities to Python and JavaScript have steadily turned it into a favorite in Blockchain technology development. In fact, some of its most popular characteristics include its flexibility, scalability, speed, and its simplicity when used in Blockchain projects. However, it’s important to note that Go is generally considered a difficult programming language to learn.
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JAVA
Launched in 1995, Java is robust, dynamic, usable across different platforms, and user friendly. It’s no wonder it is often regarded as one of the most popular programming languages, especially useful in object oriented programming. In Blockchain, Java has been used in platforms such as Hyperledger Fabric, IOTA, and NEM.
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JavaScript
JavaScript has been considered one of the best languages to learn for web development and the trend seems to continue as we move toward new technologies. There are many developers who already know JavaScript and are already implementing what they know to develop Blockchain. As someone learning JavaScript, you’ll benefit from the countless online resources available along with the advanced concepts the learning process will introduce you to.
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Rust
Rust contains safety features that are essential in the development of Blockchain technology. It enables developers to formulate creative and steady pathways toward strong frameworks. However, because it’s a relatively new language, it can be difficult to understand.
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Solidity
If you’re planning on working with an Ethereum chain, Solidity will make it easy to work with. That’s because this relatively recent Blockchain programming language is all about user friendliness, flexibility, security, and precision. Modeled after the likes of Java, C++, and Python, developers who already know one of these languages should have no issues picking up Solidity.
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SQL
Developed by IBM in the early 70s, SQL or Sequel was created to store, retrieve, and manipulate information in databases. Today, due to its security and effectiveness, SQL is one of the top Blockchain programming languages.
What Can Your Future in Tech Look Like?
Over the next few years, we’ll likely continue seeing the growth of Blockchain technology. It could expand within the cryptocurrency world or find a new purpose in industries like healthcare, government, or finance. Whatever the case, the options are virtually limitless for a technology of this nature. So, what does the future hold for you?
If you decide to jump into the expanding field of Blockchain, you have many paths for your future. You could potentially take part in the growth of an existing Blockchain project, or be part of the new wave of developers bringing Web3 to life. Even if you don’t intend to join the movement today, you can still prepare to join in the future by learning one of its top programming languages. You could learn Java or Python, establish a career in tech, and then pivot to Blockchain down the line.
Learn in a Kenzie Academy Program from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
Kenzie Academy programs from SNHU are your first step toward developing in-demand skills for a tech career. From the moment you contact Admissions, you’ll get dedicated support to help you identify your goals and stay on the right path to your continued success. Learn a popular programming language to kickstart your tech journey today. Apply today and earn the skills your future can count on.
