Backend
The backend (server-side) is the part of a web application that runs on the server and is not directly visible to the user. It handles data processing, business logic, user authentication, database communication and the delivery of data to the frontend through an API.
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What the backend does
The backend handles every operation that requires a server: user logins, sending e-mails, payments, generating PDFs, working with the database and integrating with external services. When you submit a contact form, the backend receives the data, validates it, stores it in the database and sends a notification. All of this happens on the server — you do not see it, but it is an essential part of the website.
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Backend technologies
Popular backend technologies include Node.js (JavaScript on the server), Python (Django, FastAPI), PHP (Laravel), Ruby (Rails) and Java (Spring). At Appitect we mainly use Node.js and Next.js API routes, which let us keep the frontend and backend in a single project. For databases we choose PostgreSQL for relational data and MongoDB for more flexible structures.
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API and communication with the frontend
The backend communicates with the frontend through an API (Application Programming Interface). A REST API uses HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) for data operations. GraphQL lets the client specify exactly what data it needs. In Next.js the API routes are part of the project, so you do not need a separate server. For more complex applications we use microservices or serverless functions.
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Backend security
The backend is critical to website security. It must protect against SQL injection, XSS, CSRF and other attacks. Passwords are stored hashed (bcrypt), authentication uses JWT tokens or session cookies, and all communication runs over HTTPS. Rate limiting prevents server overload. At Appitect we follow OWASP best practices and carry out regular security audits.
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Practical example
When you log in to an e-shop, the backend verifies your credentials against the database, creates a session and returns your personal details to the frontend. When you place an order, the backend processes the payment via a payment gateway, saves the order, updates the stock and sends a confirmation e-mail — all within a second.
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