Web3 for Web2 Developers

It can be a challenge coming from a pure Web2 background to fully understand how to build on a Web3 infrastructure like XION. Building on Web3 requires a mindset shift. While the core principles of software development still apply, the architecture, tooling, and user interaction models are different. This guide will help you bridge the gap.

The Key Differences Between Web2 and Web3

You'll start by understanding the fundamental architectural differences between Web2 and Web3 applications:

• Backend vs Smart Contracts: In Web2, your backend logic typically lives in frameworks like Laravel or Express. In Web3, this logic is deployed on-chain via smart contracts.

• Databases vs On-chain State: Instead of using MySQL or MongoDB, data in Web3 lives within the smart contract’s storage which is public and immutable.

• Centralized Auth vs Wallet-based Auth: Authentication moves away from traditional login systems to decentralized wallet-based identity using cryptographic signatures.

The XION Architecture

Next, you’ll explore how apps are built specifically on the XION blockchain, and what makes the platform unique:

• You'll get an overview of the full-stack architecture used by most XION-based applications.

• You'll learn the role of CosmWasm smart contracts, which serve as the core logic layer for your app.

• We’ll show you how XION encourages a frontend-first approach, enabling developers to use tools like the abstraxion library for seamless wallet interaction from the UI.