How to get started with Web3 is a premium discussion you don’t want to miss. And we’ve got you covered. Web3, also known as Web3.0, is a new Internet generation to create a decentralized, interoperable, and open-source network. Its blockchain Technology allows the creation of decentralized apps(dApps).
Key Features Of Web3
Before we talk about how to get started with web3, we need to consider its basic features of web3. Knowing these basic features will help one understand better what area to focus on. Here we go;
- Cryptocurrency: Cryptocurrency is a digital currency. It uses data encryption to execute command and is also used to store data on blockchain digitally. they exist on blockchain.
- Decentralization: The distribution of power and control across a network of participants. There are decentralized wallets, exchanges, finance, and so many more.
- Personalization and Intelligent Searches: This is the tailoring of research either with the human past experience or AI (Artificial Intelligence).
- Artificial Intelligence: These are technologies that allows computer to perform the task that are usually done by humans.
How To Get started with web3
Furthermore, unlike web1 and web2, which are one and 2 dimensional, web3 is 3 dimensional. Giving the users endless earning capabilities. As mentioned above, Web3 has a lot to bring to the table. Some of these opportunities include but are not limited to;
- web3 jobs
- crypto and blockchain-based opportunities
- web3 business and development
- Decentralized organization and DAO
- Metaverse and Gaming
- AI and Web3 Integration
- Decentralized identity and privacy
- web3 content creation
Additionally, here are few steps to take note of while starting web3 with coding;
1: Understanding Web3 fundamental
Before diving into coding, it’s vital to grasp the fundamentals of Web 3.0 and Web 2.0. Unlike traditional web apps (Web2.0), where data is stored on centralized servers, Web3.0 apps are built on blockchain technology, ensuring decentralization, transparency, and security. Familiarize yourself with concepts like smart contracts, cryptocurrencies, and decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs).
2: Setting Up Your Development Environment
Secondly, you need Node.js installed on your computer. If you’re coming from a React/Next.js background, you likely have this set up. What Next?.Install a package manager like npm or Yarn, (if you haven’t already). Installing MetaMask will also be needful (a browser extension that allows users to interact with the Ethereum blockchain). This is because MetaMask will enable your app to connect with users’ Ethereum wallet.
3: Create Your Next.js Project
Given your familiarity with React/Next.js, create a new Next.js project as your project’s foundation. Open your terminal and run:
4: Integrating Web3 Libraries
For interacting with the Ethereum blockchain, you’ll need a library like ethers.js or web3.js. For this guide, due to its simplicity and comprehensive documentation. Install ethers.js by running:
For npm= Install ethers.
For Yarn= Add ethers.
5: Connect To The Blockchain
In your project, move to creating a new file to manage the blockchain connection. You can use ethers.js to connect to Ethereum’s network and interact with smart contracts.
6: Building Of The Front-End
Then, leverage your React skills to build the app’s frontend. Use Next.js pages to create your app’s structure, and integrate Web3.0 functionalities where needed. e.g, if your app allows users to send Ethereum, you’d use the signer obtained in Step 5 to execute a transaction.
7: Interacting With Smart Contract
If your app interacts with a smart contract, you’ll need the contract’s address and ABI (Application Binary Interface). You can use ethers.js to connect to the contract and call its functions.
8: Testing And Deployment
Lastly, before deploying your app, give it a thorough check (test). Local Ethereum blockchain simulators like Hardhat or Ganache are good for testing. Once you’re confident in your app’s functionality, deploy it. Vercel and Netlify offer simple deployment solutions for Next.js apps.
Can I explore Web3 without coding knowledge? The answer is Yes! To use Web3 without coding as a beginner, you can primarily leverage “no-code” platforms that permit you to interact with decentralized applications (dApps) and manage your crypto assets through user-friendly interfaces, essentially letting you experience Web3 features without code; some popular options include using crypto wallets like MetaMask, exploring decentralized exchanges (DEXs) with intuitive interfaces, and utilizing platforms like dApps marketplaces to discover and use various Web3 applications. Here are some steps for a beginner with no coding knowledge.
- Get a crypto wallet:
- Download a user-friendly wallet like MetaMask on your browser extension.
- Create an account and securely store your seed phrase.
- Fund your wallet with a small amount of cryptocurrency (like ETH on Ethereum network) to interact with dApps
- Explore decentralized exchanges (DEXs):
- Access platforms like Uniswap or Sushiswap through your wallet.
- Trade cryptocurrencies directly on the blockchain without relying on centralized exchanges.
- Discover dApps through marketplaces:
- Visit platforms like DappRadar or State of the DApps to browse and discover various dApps across numerous blockchains.
- Explore options like decentralized finance (DeFi) applications (lending, borrowing), NFT marketplaces, decentralized games, and more.
- Use no-code development platforms:
- Platforms like Directual or Bubble allow you to build basic Web3 applications with visual interfaces without writing code.
Important considerations when using Web3 without coding:
- Understand the basics of blockchain technology: While you can use Web3 without coding, having a basic understanding of blockchain concepts like decentralization, smart contracts, and tokens will enhance your experience.
- Secondly, Security practices: Be cautious when interacting with dApps, always verify the contract addresses, and only use trusted platforms to protect your assets.
- Lastly, Learn about gas fees: Transactions on the blockchain often require a small fee (gas) to process, understand how these fees work and factor them into your interaction.
What Can I Create With A No Coding Knowledge in Web3
- DeFi Apps: Users can engage with financial services without the use of traditional banks by creating decentralized financial applications like lending platforms, yield farming platforms, decentralized exchanges, and prediction markets.
- NFT Market Place: Using NFTs, you can build a platform where collectors and artists can purchase, trade, and sell digital assets such as music, videos, artwork, and other digital collectibles.
- Content Sharing Platforms: Establish decentralized content sharing platforms where users can upload and distribute content (such as photos, videos, and articles) and receive cryptocurrency rewards from the community.
- Blockchain-Based Games: Create blockchain technology-based games, enabling players to truly possess their in-game belongings by storing in-game currencies and assets on a blockchain.
- Supply Chain And Logistics: Create blockchain-based applications to manage the supply chain, guaranteeing product traceability and transparency all the way through the chain.
- Establish Decentralized Social Network: Create social media sites where users manage their contacts and data and where content is kept on a decentralized network.
How to get started in web3: Conclusion
Creating a Web3.0 app with React/Next.js experience is a great journey into the future of the web. Leveraging existing skills while embracing new technologies like blockchain and smart contracts can, therefore, result in the creation of innovative, decentralized applications. Note that the Web 3.0 ecosystem is rapidly evolving; continual learning and adaptation will indeed be a key to success.
