Software Development vs. Web Development: Similarities and Differences

Published on: September 7, 2023

If you feel drawn to a career in tech, you've probably considered web development or software development as a viable path. As similar as these job titles may sound, they are actually quite different in terms of their scope and what they entail. If you're trying to figure out where your future career aspirations lie, you'll want to have a solid understanding of the similarities and differences between these two popular tech roles. 

What Is Software Development? 

Software development refers to a field where professionals create programs, web-based applications and other software specifically designed to be used on computers and mobile devices (such as tablets and smartphones). Software developers handle the creation of these programs from start to finish—from the earliest stages of conceptualization to testing and releasing. 

What Is Web Development? 

Web development, on the other hand, refers to the creation and building of websites from the ground up. The work of a web developer involves a great deal of coding, testing and troubleshooting before a site can launch to the public. Oftentimes, web developers are also tasked with working not just on the user-facing end of a website but on the client side of development as well.  

Similarities Between Software and Web Development  

At first glance, the work of a software developer and a web developer seems similar. It is, in fact, somewhat similar in a few ways, ranging from the types of coding and languages to debugging and deployment tasks.  

Programming Languages 

All web developers and software developers do a lot of coding as part of their everyday jobs. This requires a deep knowledge of different coding languages and how to use them effectively to improve user experience and keep things running smoothly. 

However, the specific coding languages web developers and software developers use are not the same. Web developers typically work with languages like HTML, CSS and JavaScript to build useful websites. Software developers are more likely to use Python, C++ and Java to build different applications and programs.  

Testing and Debugging 

It is also common for both software development and web development to require a fair amount of testing and debugging. This is done prior to releasing or deploying a website or application to ensure every aspect of the product is working as it should. Testing can be performed in the form of beta testing or other methods to reveal weaknesses or areas that may require troubleshooting. The more thorough the testing and debugging, the lower the potential for problems once the product formally launches to the public.  

Deployment 

The final stage of a web or software developer's job is deployment, where the platform has been debugged and troubleshooted as much as possible. It is now ready for release to the public. For a web developer, this means publishing the website so it is live. For a software developer, this could mean making the program available for download to users. 

This is certainly not to say problems won't arise and that these professionals won't need to continue making tweaks or upgrades to the site or program—but by this point, the bulk of the work should be complete. 

Differences Between Software and Web Development 

Despite their similarities, there are some inherent and notable differences between the software development and web development fields as well.  

Front-end vs. Back-end 

Generally, web developers focus more on the back-end development of a website; they are working on the "behind-the-scenes" stuff that users won't necessarily see when they visit the site (like the coding framework) but that still plays a major role in its overall user experience. Meanwhile, the front-end parts are handled by a separate professional (usually, a web designer).   

Software development, conversely, tends to incorporate a little bit of both front-end and back-end work. Software developers must be conscious of not only the internal framework and coding of a new program but also how it functions and looks to the everyday user.  

Scope and Purpose 

The overall scope of a software developer's job differs from that of a web developer. Typically, software development can be narrower in its scope, as these professionals are tasked with creating particular programs with precise functions. Web development is slightly less rigid with a broader scope.  

Platform and Environment 

Software developers and web developers may also work in different kinds of environments and across different platforms. Both positions are highly collaborative, as the roles require close communication with other professionals (such as web designers and software engineers). However, the working environment of a web developer tends to be a bit more independent. 

Tools and Frameworks 

Although web developers and software developers both use technical tools and frameworks to perform their jobs, the specifics can vary greatly. This is especially true when it comes to coding languages—as web developers are more focused on HTML and CSS, whereas software developers use other frameworks like Python and C++.  

Web Developer vs. Software Developer: Where They Work 

These days, all companies need some kind of web presence, so there is always a need for web developers. Many of these professionals work independently as freelancers, and others are hired on directly by a company that offers web development services to different clients. Software developers, on the other hand, tend to be hired by companies in need of new programs and/or applications. This work may be by contract (for a fixed period of time) or a permanent, salaried position.  

How to Become a Software Developer  

Most companies looking to hire software developers will seek a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in software development or a similar field. There are many highly technical skills a software developer should possess, which are most effectively learned in school. It could also be helpful to pursue additional certifications if you are considering a job in software development and want to stand out from other applicants. Prior experience in the form of a similar development role or internship may be preferred (but is usually not expected) for an entry-level software development position.  

In general, the path to becoming a software developer takes anywhere from about one to three years, depending on how long your schooling takes and any prior coding experience you may have.  

Ready to Get Started in Software Development? 

While both software development and web development incorporate coding, testing and debugging, that's essentially where the similarities between these fields end. Of course, if you're interested in a tech role that involves a fair amount of problem-solving and technical expertise, then either of these paths could be a rewarding option.