Top 10 Backend Solutions To Know About

Software development conventionally consists of frontend and backend programming. Hereof, backend development is considered more crucial because it deals with complicated tasks. However, backend solutions made it quite easy for dev teams. 

Indeed, the use of backend solutions is rapidly growing with advancements in the programming world. Especially businesses rely on cloud computing services like BaaS and PaaS for quickly managing, deploying, and creating their backends. 

According to MarketsandMarkets, the BaaS market will hit 9.2 billion USD by 2028. This platform also anticipates that PaaS market share can reach 164.3 billion USD by 2026. This figure was only 56.2 billion USD in 2020.

Correspondingly, the selection of the right databases and server-side frameworks is also important. Therefore, this article shares one of the top backend solutions with their core properties.

Types of Backend Solutions

Here are the three major types of backend solutions:

Cloud Platforms

The combination of datacenter-based server hardware and operating system used for conferring computing services over the internet is referred to as a cloud platform.

These platforms authorize the dev teams and businesses to employ computing facilities like storage, databases, networking, analytics, etc.

Hereof, businesses don’t have to invest in on-premises infrastructure or maintenance of hardware resources.

Indeed, you need to pay for utilized instances only because cloud computing solutions follow a pay-as-you-go pricing model. 

The leading backend cloud platforms are Back4app, Heroku, and Firebase. 

Databases

An arranged set of structured data which is backlogged electronically is known as a database. DBMS or database management systems are usually responsible for administering databases.

These DBs shape the information in the form of tables and conduct data modifications and querying.

Similarly, backend DBs are liable for supervising and gathering data for server-side applications. In this regard, you can adopt NoSQL and relational databases for building backends.

Likewise, you can employ MySQL and PostgreSQL if you want an RDBMS.

However, the use of Firebase Realtime DB and Firestore could be effective if you require a NoSQL document database.   

Backend Frameworks

A backend framework is an accumulation of libraries, toolsets, and components that help programmers build foundations for mobile and web applications.

These frameworks also fasten the development speed and robotize the programming process. 

With backend frameworks, you don’t have to spend time creating extra codes. So, you can improve the overall efficiency of a development process.

More scalability, improved security, and performance are also advantages of using backend frameworks.

Django, Express.js, Laravel, Ruby on Rails, and CakePHP are renowned frameworks that you can utilize.

Top 10 Backend Solutions

Let’s delve into the best backend solutions:

1. Back4app

Back4app is an impeccable backend solution that is known because of its BaaS and PaaS offerings.

As we begin with Back4app BaaS, it is a low-code platform that lets the developers create highly scalable and advanced apps without managing server-side operations. 

Yes, this Backend as a Service provider authorizes dev teams to emphasize frontend chores, and it takes care of backend functions. Realtime database, authentication, cloud functions, and file storage are major features of its BaaS offering. 

Contrarily, Back4app Containers is a PaaS offering that enables you to deploy applications in a containerized environment utilizing a Git repository.

Indeed, you need to connect your Back4app account with GitHub and deploy the code with zero downtime. 

Meantime, tracking, compatibility with Docker files, and quick development are advantages of using this facility.

Please read the article A step by step guide to deploy a mobile application to learn more about this subject.

Moreover, this open-source backend solution comes with a free tier, so you can start your dev journey without investing a single penny.

Core Features

• Realtime Database – It is robust to store, fetch and inspect relational information with this functionality. You can leverage SDKs, GraphQL, and REST APIs to interpret relational data spontaneously.  

• Authentication – An automated and fully connected user management system is another appealing trait of Back4app. This feature doesn’t only handle user sessions and verify emails, but it also empowers end-users to sign in or sign up using distinct social apps.

• File Storage – It is quick to display and backlog a variety of file types on the cloud. Yes, Back4app has the ability to gather data into different file formats like videos, text, images, etc., and deliver it within moments. 

• Realtime Monitoring – You can monitor your utilized instances like CPU, bandwidth, and RAM to optimize the performance of applications. This feature also lowers security flaws and improves operational efficiency. 

• Customized & No Downtime Deployments – Whether you make a modification or set up a new commit, Back4app Containers implements it without any downtime. Hereof, you can conveniently tailor your command, select the branch, and define the route of the dockerfile. 

2. Firebase

Firebase is another finest Backend as a Service (BaaS) provider, which provides a wide collection of app development and cloud computing facilities.

This Google-backed CSP authorizes dev teams to build, scale, run, and deploy web, iOS, Unity, and Android applications.

To efficiently craft backends, Firebase facilitates you with NoSQL real-time databases, authentication, hosting, FCM, cloud storage, and several other features.

Correspondingly, you can seamlessly connect your apps with tools with Slack, Google Ads, Data Studio, Jira, and Android Studio. 

Furthermore, it is robust for dev teams to utilize Firebase along with Google Cloud to employ one of the leading cloud solutions.

If we discuss the pricing, Firebase costs you nothing if your app backend needs are limited to the Spark plan. Yes, the Spark plan is a free-tier Firebase offering. 

However, its paid solution, which is called the Blaze plan, pursues a pay-as-you-go billing policy. 

Core Features

• Databases – Firebase has two NoSQL databases that come with real-time capabilities. Realtime Database is its primary DB, which is used to connect and backlog data with offline support. Cloud Firestore is the novel Firebase DB that deals with more complicated datasets. 

• Authentication – You can develop a fully tailored auth page through FirebaseUI. This all-in-one authentication system manages the users and allows them to register on applications using multiple platforms such as Facebook, GitHub, Gmail etc.

• Cloud Messaging – Cloud Messaging is another appealing tool. It lets businesses ship messages to different devices. FCM is also responsible for push notifications and receiving messages for nothing.

• Crashlytics – It is essential to identify the main reason behind a failure. Hereof, developers can use Crashlytics to recognize a crash, fix it, and get in-depth insights into the root cause of this event. 

• Cloud Storage – This feature is designed to store all types of user-created data on the fly. You can employ this functionality for iOS, Android, Unity, web, and C++ applications to securely backlog data. 

3. Heroku

Heroku is one of the prominent cloud platforms that follow the Platform as a Service (PaaS) approach for creating and deploying applications.

This backend solution was originally designed to support Ruby projects, but now, it backs a wide range of programming technologies. Indeed, Heroku formally supports Go, PHP, Scala, Node.js, Python, Java, etc.

This PaaS vendor believes in providing an excellent developer experience to its customers. That is why it simplifies the deployment, running, development, shipping, and scaling of applications.

Besides, developers don’t have to worry about handling infrastructure when they use Heroku. 

Heroku is also considered a widely trusted computing solution among all sizes of businesses, startups and dev teams because of its services.

Yes, it has aided businesses in generating 13+ million apps with the ability to manage 60+ billion requests daily. 

Hereof, the key Heroku features that attract users are Dynos, Runtime, Heroku OpEx, and Heroku Data Services.

However, unlike other backend solutions, Heroku doesn’t have any free offerings. You need to subscribe to its premium plans to begin using this PaaS platform.

Core Features

• Heroku Data Services – It is seamless to build data-intensive applications because of the fully administered and powerful data services of Heroku. Hereof, if you need a NoSQL DB, you can employ Redis, and to get SQL capabilities, you can approach Heroku Postgres. Similarly, Apache Kafka is also a suitable choice for real-time data streaming.

• Heroku OpEx – This feature facilitates the developers with an optimized operational experience. It lets you track the factors that influence the overall functioning of an application.

• Heroku Runtime – Runtime is in charge of administering and running applications in isolated and smart containers named dynos. Spontaneous security patching, default encryption, quick rollbacks, and smooth traffic management are advantages of Heroku Runtime.

• Private Spaces – Enterprises usually want dedicated runtime environments to deploy their applications. Fortunately, this trait grants enterprise-level smart containers and security for running such apps.

• Heroku Teams – Heroku lets you build well-coordinated applications. You can connect with 25 teammates for free and assign them different roles while using this feature. 

4. Postgres

Postgres or PostgreSQL is the 4th most popular DBMS with a ranking score of 620.75, according to Statista. This is an advanced open-source database that acts in accordance with JSON and object-relational querying. 

If we talk about its usage, Postgres is utilized for handling write/read operations, convoluted queries and extensive datasets.

That is why PostgreSQL is the leading choice for crafting geospatial data stores for mobile and web applications. 

This backend solution is also popular for the development of gaming, eCommerce, CMS, IoT, GIS, and cloud-native apps.

Correspondingly, as a stable database, Postgres owns outstanding documentation and ample community support.

With 45.55% votes, it has been ranked as the most popular database technology, according to a survey by Stack Overflow. 

Core Features

• ORDBMS – Postgres has an edge over traditional relational databases because it is not only SQL-compliant, but it confers object-oriented patterns. Object-relational database management systems are also good at managing complicated data designs and pursuing modern querying. 

• ACID Compliance – This feature has great significance when it comes to conducting database operations efficiently. You can also ensure reliability during data modifications with this trait.

• Scalability – PostgreSQL is considered an enterprise-grade database because of its scalability property. Yes, it is robust to extend your datasets while using this ORDBMS.

• Part of LAPP Stack & Language Support – Postgres is a prominent backend part of the LAPP stack. Here, this database runs dynamic apps with Linux, PHP, and Apache. By the same token, this DBMS supports all famous scripting technologies, including Python, Perl, Java, C++, Node.js, Ruby, and Go.   

5. MySQL

MySQL is a relational, open-source, and free-to-use database that authorizes developers to gather, fetch, and handle structured information skillfully.

With an 1111.49 ranking score, MySQL is also positioned as the second most beloved RDBMS, according to Statista.

It follows the client-server model and relational data design when it comes to its functioning.

If we begin with the client-server model, the server is the section where your data exists, and the client is used to approach this data. Likewise, a client comes into action when an app user demands particular data. 

Similarly, the relational approach lets you store data in small units to simplify the data-gathering process. The use of MySQL is common for building shopping portals and data-driven mobile and web applications.

Core Features

• Part of LAMP Stack – MySQL is an essential part of the LAMP stack. This stack includes Linux, PHP, Perl, Python, MySQL, and Apache. Moreover, this RDBMS backs leading programming languages such as C#, Java, Rust, Node.js, Ruby, and C++.

• Easy to Use – If you have basic knowledge of structured query language, it is convenient for you to use MySQL as a backend solution. Several tech giants like Facebook, WordPress, Joomla, and Netflix use MySQL because of its ease of use and reliability. 

• Scalable – MySQL is a highly extensible solution. Yes, it has multithreading capability so it becomes simple to deal with fifty million rows. Also, you can scale its file size up to 8 TB easily. 

• Secure – MySQL backs SSL-encrypted networking and follows ACL or Access Control List to keep the backend data secure. 

6. Django

Django is a high-level backend framework scripted in Python. This open-source framework pursues MVT or model-view-template design.

With supplementary URLs, the MVT pattern consists of template, view, and model layers. Hereof, every layer freely performs its functions. 

In the beginning, Django was designed to simplify the development of data-intensive and complicated web applications.

Please read the article How to deploy a Django app to learn more about this subject.

However, this framework also gives outstanding results when you use it for creating social media, eCommerce, booking and traveling apps. 

Core Features

• Fast Development – Django is popular for developing apps in minimal time. Mainly, the use of Django Packages lets the programmers utilize tons of supportive tools to speed up the dev process. 

• Battery Included – This framework acts in accordance with the battery included principle. Indeed, Django permits you to acquire multiple packages to insert distinct functions. Hereof, you don’t have to write the codes for such actions.

• Security – Another reason for using this Python framework is its absolute security. It lowers the security gaps and provides maximum protection against SQL injection, XSS, and clickjacking. 

• Scalability – Django has the ability to handle all sizes of incoming traffic. So, whether you are a startup or a big company, Django will handle your app’s traffic and computing needs efficiently. 

7. Express.js

Express.js is an open-source and robust Node.js framework conventionally used for developing web apps and APIs.

This framework confers a complete collection of routing, HTTP requests, middleware, and responses for building scalable applications on the fly. 

Correspondingly, this backend solution comes with Node Package Manager and pursues the DRY principle.

So, you can easily prevent redundancy and overcome repetitive tasks. If we discuss the use of Express.js, it is a suitable backend framework for streaming, real-time, single-page, and fintech projects.  

Core Features

• Part of MEAN & MERN Stack – MEAN Stack is a JS framework where Express is used with Angular and Node. At the same time, the MERN stack is another combo of JS technologies where you can utilize Express along with React, and Node.js.

• V8 Engine – V8 Engine is a powerful JS engine that plays an important role in creating backends. This Node.js framework supports multiple V8 Engine packages.

• Error Handling – Express.js uses different types of error handling approaches with great ease in case of any sudden event. Other JS technologies like Node.js don’t have the capacity to deal with undetected errors spontaneously.

• Scalability – This framework owns a wide range of packages, resources, and modules for developing extensible applications. It efficiently deals with user requests. Also, Express.js doesn’t need additional configuration when it comes to crafting scalable projects.

8. Laravel

Laravel is another widely used backend framework that is scripted in PHP.

This is an open-source and free-to-use framework that pursues MVC or model-view-controller architecture. It helps developers in creating high-end web applications by reutilizing existing elements.

With a lean learning curve, this backend framework lets you create highly scalable web apps and websites. Laravel provides all types of components and tools that developers need at different stages of the dev process. 

Core Features

• Built-In Modules – You don’t need to script any code because of readymade modules. Yes, Laravel has tons of packages that help you in app creation. You can also tailor these packages and add them to your project.

• Automated Testing – Laravel has two major types of testing capabilities. The first one is unit testing which is employed for examining small code portions. Similarly, feature testing deals with big parts of the code.

• Gigantic Ecosystem – PHP is an old and popular programming language. That is why Laravel also has a large ecosystem. So, it is simple for developers to find supportive resources, tools, and packages. 

• Eloquent ORM – It is effortless to communicate with different data models using this feature. Eloquent ORM permits the dev teams to script DB queries employing PHP syntax instead of using SQL scripts. 

9. Ruby on Rails

Scripted in Ruby, RoR is another popular framework that has 55k repository stars on GitHub.

This server-side framework acts in accordance with the model-view-controller or MVC pattern. Besides, its feature-rich toolkit enables it to work as a full-stack framework. 

If we discuss its uses, Ruby on Rails is known for building eCommerce platforms, and Shopify is one example of it.

By the same token, you can also use RoR for the development of CMS and social media apps. Yes, Rails has hundreds of Gems in the form of plugins and extensions that help in this regard.

Core Features

• DRY & CoC – Rails is a time and cost-efficient solution because it acts upon the DRY or Don’t Repeat Yourself approach. On the other hand, developers with minimum coding knowledge can benefit from this framework because of its convention over configuration philosophy. 

• Active Record – M presents this trait in the MVC model. You can define business logic and data using Active Record. This feature also helps in using and building business objects. 

• Easy to Learn – Ruby is an easy-to-read, understand, and learn programming language. Yes, its straightforward syntax makes it a perfect choice for beginners. With English-like keywords, you can seamlessly learn and use RoR for your projects.

• Community Support – RoR has active community support. You can join distinct Ruby discussion forums to get solutions for your queries. It is also easy to get supportive resources because of its open-source nature.

10. CakePHP

CakePHP is another PHP-based backend framework on our list. This framework follows the MVC pattern, which is why it categorizes the data into three layers.

Indeed, the model layer deals with data logic, the controller governs the request flow, and the view is responsible for data delivery.

CakePHP is commonly used for building cost-efficient and lightweight web applications that need less coding. This open-source backend solution also enables you to craft tailored applications.

Core Features

• Built-In Validation – CakePHP has two data validation offerings. One is delivered before requesting data, and the second comes into action: you store the data and impose the rule.

• Localization – Localization is another appealing trait of this framework. It enables developers to change the language of an application according to the region of the app user.

• Multiple Database Support – CakePHP backs a number of databases. Indeed, you can connect with distinct DBs like MySQL, Postgres, MariaDB, and SQLite.

• SEO-Friendly URLs – The development of a website is not everything; you must get higher ranks on search engines. CakePHP generates search-engine-friendly URLs in this regard. 

Conclusion

This article divides the backend solutions into three categories: frameworks, databases, and cloud platforms.

So, if you need a backend database, you can pick MySQL or Postgres. Similarly, if you want a cloud computing platform for building backends, the use of Back4app, Firebase, and Heroku would be ideal.

In addition, we also discussed one of the leading backend frameworks like Laravel, Django and Express.js with core features. Therefore, you can employ a suitable solution according to your project needs.