Understanding the difference between front-end and back-end is crucial with Web3 technology. The term “front-end” describes the part of Web3 applications that consumers directly interact with. This includes the user side of the technology, websites and decentralized applications (DApps).
The back-end, on the other hand, refers to the complex system that supports these Web3 applications. Everything from distributed ledgers and smart contracts to consensus protocols are included here.
However, accessibility and simplicity are important for Web3 adoption. When the technical complexities of Web3 are emphasized too much on the front end – such as managing cryptographic keys or understanding blockchain concepts – it can alienate a significant portion of potential users. It is important to make the user experience and interactions smooth and easy to understand so that the end user does not have to worry about technical details.
By prioritizing accessibility and simplicity, Web3 technology can be more attractive to diverse users. This approach helps bridge the gap between early adopters familiar with blockchain technology and the broader general public.
Harrison Hines, CEO and co-founder of Fleek, a Web3 application development platform, told Cointelegraph: “Simplicity and accessibility have been essential to the general growth of computers, smartphones, mobile applications and even very recently of AI. Hiding technical complexities in the backend follows the same logic. Developers are also end users and they need tools/infrastructure that are easy to use and build.
Benefits of hiding Web3 in the backend
User experience can be improved by making blockchain-based applications easier to navigate. When users are free from the technical complexities associated with blockchain technology and cryptographic keys, they can use Web3 applications in a way that resembles traditional web applications. This simplified experience encourages users to explore and adopt Web3 applications without being intimidated by their complexity.
Simplified integration for non-technical users
When the onboarding process is simple, people unfamiliar with blockchain technology can quickly get started with Web3 applications. This approach reduces the learning curve and allows a larger and more diverse user base to access the benefits of Web3 without needing a deep understanding of its technical aspects.
For example, Immutable Passport simplifies the WAGMI Defense user onboarding process by providing a simple, password-free sign-up experience. With just a few clicks, users can create an account, eliminating the need for password management. At the same time, Passport establishes a non-custodial wallet in the background, providing a secure repository for users’ digital assets.
Review: Infiltrate Liberland: Dodge guards with inner tubes, decoys and diplomats
Authentication options are streamlined, allowing users to choose from well-known methods such as Google, Apple, or email login.
Passport’s interoperability feature also enables seamless connections across all games and markets in the Immutable ecosystem.
This approach ensures a user-friendly experience, especially for those unfamiliar with Web3 technologies. According to to the Web3 game franchise WAGMI Games, this feature allows it to integrate more players.
Kostas Kroustaloudis, Director of Development at WAGMI Games, told Cointelegraph: “Simplifying the onboarding process for non-technical users is key to driving widespread adoption of Web3 technology. The majority of individuals have little patience for complex technical interfaces.
Kroustaloudis continues: “In fact, the likelihood that a person will uninstall an app skyrockets with each additional click or tap it takes to achieve their goal. This is especially crucial when introducing new titles to gamers. The difference between success and failure often depends on reducing just one more click.
Attract more users and developers
Keeping Web3 technology in the background can help bridge the gap between early adopters and mainstream users, expanding the Web3 user base beyond tech and blockchain enthusiasts. As Web3 applications become indistinguishable from their traditional counterparts in terms of user experience, they are more likely to attract users who might have been hesitant to explore the technology due to its perceived complexity.
According to some experts, making it easier to create applications that hide Web3 components in the backend may attract more developers, thereby bringing more Web3 applications to market.
Fleek’s Hines said: “The main benefit is to make it easier and more accessible for more developers to build applications using Web3 technologies in their backends. »
Hines continued: “It’s just a numbers game. The more developers you have creating more Web3-based applications, the more likely (and faster) you are to start finding those successful applications that drive mainstream adoption. This is the same thing we saw happening in Web2 and mobile. Users discovering new Web3 applications that they enjoy is what will encourage them to try others.
Minimize user errors and risks
The back-end obfuscation of Web3 technology has the added benefit of minimizing user errors and risks. When users are not exposed to technical complexities, the likelihood of making critical errors, such as mishandling cryptographic keys or insecure transactions, is reduced.
This is particularly important in decentralized finance applications, where minor errors can lead to significant financial losses.
Minimize user errors and risks
A notable example of a back-end Web3 implementation is the Ethereum Name Service (ENS). ENS allows users to replace long and cryptic Ethereum addresses with human-readable domain names.
This technology can be integrated into applications, providing users with a seamless experience. Users can send cryptocurrency to “john.eth” instead of “0x4cbe58a94d991087fa2dc648b1e33f55dbb53f4f2,” making transactions less error-prone.
Coinbase uses cb.id usernames, an ENS domain form, to streamline cryptocurrency transfers and user interaction. These usernames are associated with the ENS infrastructure, simplifying complex wallet addresses by providing a human-readable alternative.
Additionally, cb.id usernames automatically redirect web users to the respective Web3 profiles at profile.coinbase.com.
Regarding blockchain games, WAGMI Games is another example. Its WAGMI Defense mobile app uses a free business model and offers a familiar user experience. Players start by getting a free base deck of cards. Let’s say a player wants to participate in more challenging games with the possibility of higher ranks and potential rewards. In this case, they can purchase NFT characters with real money, like traditional apps.
While blockchain serves as the basis of the game’s technology, players interact with the game through a more traditional interface. This design can reduce the perceived complexity and difficulty of using blockchain and NFT features, making them more accessible to a wider audience.
Concrete advice
For builders looking to create more user-friendly and transparent Web3 applications, implementing gas optimization strategies is a key consideration. Gas fees are an integral part of many blockchain transactions and can pose a significant barrier for users.
Builders can solve the problem of gas fees by using layer 2 solutions such as state channels, diverting transactions from the main chain, reducing congestion and improving user experience, especially for DApps games.
Additionally, they can choose low-cost blockchains like BNB Smart Chain, Solana, or Polkadot to create economical environments, especially for microtransactions.
Kroustaloudis agrees, telling Cointelegraph: “Gas fees, especially in the context of applications relying on microtransactions, can pose a significant barrier. Even a $0.10 gas fee, when charged frequently, can be problematic. With the emergence of various new L2 chains like Coinbase’s BASE and Immutable’s L2 solution, gas fees cease to be a concern.
“Depending on the nature of the application, choosing to rely on layers 2 becomes an obvious choice to achieve mass adoption. To embark on this adventure, developers must carefully study the needs of their target users and determine the gas optimization strategy best suited to their project.
Zero-knowledge (ZK) technology, particularly ZK rollups, can reduce the load on the main chain by consolidating off-chain transactions into a single smart contract, providing faster confirmation times and lower fees. Manufacturers can integrate ZK rollups to make their applications more efficient and profitable while improving the user experience.
Recent: New York’s MoMA now has tokenized artworks in its permanent collection
Builders should also consider optimizing their content for mobile devices. Many users access Web3 applications on their smartphones. It is therefore crucial to ensure that an app is mobile-friendly and works seamlessly across different screen sizes and devices for widespread adoption.
For users considering using Web3 applications, it is essential to stay aware and informed about the technology. Web3 and blockchain are evolving rapidly, and staying informed about the latest developments, security best practices, and usage guidelines can help users make informed decisions to protect their digital assets.
