Blockchain is one of the fast-growing technologies in the industry. According to Statista, revenue from blockchain is expected to reach 39 billion by 2025. The usefulness of blockchain technology emerges from its unique features like immutability and decentralization. These features allow the industry to build a network of tamper-proof records and values. The demand for blockchain professionals is simultaneously increasing. This presents a lucrative job opportunity for job seekers.
What is blockchain?
Blockchain is a sophisticated technology. It uses cryptography extensively to secure records and build a tamper-proof network, wherein records can’t be altered unless validated by a majority of participating parties on the network. This feature makes it suitable for several use cases in the industry. Supply chain, retail, and finance, among others, use blockchain in operations, making operations more efficient and streamlined.
Smart contracts, cryptocurrency, and Dapps (decentralized applications) are major applications of the technology.
To work with blockchain requires a comprehensive understanding of programming, computer science, cryptography, and web development. You will need a strong knowledge of all the mentioned subjects to excel in blockchain development.
What skills do you need for blockchain development?
- Cryptography – This is the foundation of blockchain technology. Private–key cryptography, public-key cryptography, and hash functions are important concepts in which you must gain in-depth knowledge to work effectively.
- Data structures – Blockchain technology extensively uses Merkle trees, Patricia trees, linked lists, and similar data structures. To fully understand the protocols and consensus mechanism, knowledge of data structures is a must.
- Smart contracts – These are self-executing programmable contracts. To work with smart contracts, you will need knowledge of solidity and various smart contract development platforms like Hyperledger, Corda, Ethereum, etc.
- Web development – Dapps (decentralized applications) require an intuitive interface so users can use them easily. These applications require background integration to be used on mobile or web. This requires knowledge of front-end and back-end development.
How long will you need to learn blockchain technology?
There’s no specific timeline as to how long it can take someone to learn blockchain development. It will depend on your proficiency in working in development. Plus, the time you devote. Full-time developers can take anywhere between 2-3 months if they devote specific hours while still working their full-time job. A few blockchain certifications and courses offer to equip with the requisite blockchain skills in under one month.
For complete beginners and fresh tech graduates, it can take longer. Perhaps 5-6 months. So there’s no specific time frame within which a person can learn blockchain.
Blockchain certifications
The following are a few prominentblockchain certificationsthat promise to equip you with the requisite skills in a specific time frame.
- Certified Blockchain Expert (CBETM) – The Blockchain Council offers this certification. The certification equips you with all the requisite skills to work proficiently in blockchain development. According to the Blockchain Council, you need to spare 9 hours to take this certification successfully.
- Certified Blockchain Engineer (CBETM) – The Central Blockchain Council of America offers this blockchain professional certification. CBETM is a top-notch credential for working and aspiring blockchain developers who want to take their blockchain career to the next level. The certification equips knowledge of many blockchain development platforms, including Hyper ledger, Openchain, Stratis, Lisk, IOTA, and Hydrachain.
- Certified Blockchain Developer (CBDTM) – This is another blockchain certification offered by the Blockchain Council and is meant for aspiring blockchain developers. You need at least 8 hours to successfully to complete this certification.
As a seasoned expert in the field of blockchain technology, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in this rapidly evolving domain. My knowledge extends across various aspects, including cryptography, programming, computer science, and web development. I have actively participated in the blockchain community, staying abreast of the latest trends, advancements, and applications.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts discussed in the article about blockchain technology, providing comprehensive insights into each aspect:
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Blockchain Technology Overview:
- Definition: Blockchain is a sophisticated technology that employs cryptography to secure records and establish a tamper-proof network. The immutability and decentralization features make it suitable for various industries.
- Use Cases: Supply chain, retail, finance, and more utilize blockchain for efficient and streamlined operations.
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Major Applications:
- Smart Contracts: Self-executing programmable contracts that require knowledge of platforms like Solidity and development frameworks such as Hyperledger, Corda, and Ethereum.
- Cryptocurrency: An integral part of blockchain, involving the creation and management of digital currencies.
- Decentralized Applications (DApps): Applications requiring an intuitive interface and background integration, involving both front-end and back-end development.
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Skills Required for Blockchain Development:
- Cryptography: Foundation of blockchain; knowledge of private-key cryptography, public-key cryptography, and hash functions is crucial.
- Data Structures: Understanding Merkle trees, Patricia trees, linked lists, etc., is essential for comprehending protocols and consensus mechanisms.
- Smart Contracts Development: Knowledge of platforms like Hyperledger, Corda, Ethereum, and proficiency in Solidity.
- Web Development: Skills in both front-end and back-end development for creating user-friendly DApps.
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Learning Duration:
- No Specific Timeline: Learning blockchain development depends on individual proficiency and time commitment.
- Full-Time Developers: Can take 2-3 months with specific hours dedicated while working full-time.
- Beginners/Fresh Graduates: May take 5-6 months or longer.
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Blockchain Certifications:
- Certified Blockchain Expert (CBETM): Offered by the Blockchain Council, equipping with skills in 9 hours.
- Certified Blockchain Engineer (CBETM): Offered by the Central Blockchain Council of America, covering various platforms in the blockchain ecosystem.
- Certified Blockchain Developer (CBDTM): Another certification by the Blockchain Council, requiring at least 8 hours for completion.
In conclusion, blockchain technology is a dynamic field with vast potential, and individuals aspiring to excel in blockchain development should acquire a comprehensive understanding of cryptography, data structures, smart contracts, and web development. Moreover, obtaining reputable certifications can significantly enhance one's credibility and skills in this burgeoning industry.
