Most of us spend our days interacting with technology—phones, laptops, cars, TVs, smart home devices, and more. Behind nearly every digital experience is one critical element: software.
Software is the set of programs, instructions, and other information that tells a computer what to do and how to do it. It powers everything from mobile apps and business systems to embedded controllers in cars and medical devices.
To create and maintain this software, organizations rely on software developers.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What a software developer is and what they do day-to-day
- The different types of software developers
- The technical and professional skills software developers must have
- Common tools and technologies in modern software engineering
- Salary and career outlook
- Step-by-step guidance on how to become a software developer
What does a software developer do?
At a high level, a software developer designs, builds, and maintains software applications and systems that solve real problems for users and organizations. A developer uses programming languages to write and test code, making sure that the final product meets user requirements and performs reliably.
You’ll sometimes see the title used interchangeably with software engineer. While some organizations distinguish between the two roles, the day‑to‑day work often overlaps.
Core responsibilities
Software developers must have a strong grasp of how computer systems and applications work together. Typical responsibilities include:
- Designing software
- Gathering and analyzing user requirements
- Translating needs into detailed design specifications
- Creating flowcharts, diagrams, and architecture models that describe how components and systems will work
- Writing and maintaining code
- Using one or more programming languages (such as Python, Java, or JavaScript)
- Implementing new features and fixing defects
- Refactoring existing code to improve performance, security, and maintainability
- Testing and quality assurance
- Performing unit, integration, and system testing
- Collaborating with quality assurance analysts and testers to verify functionality
- Ensuring that software meets performance and security requirements
- Deploying and supporting software
- Packaging and releasing updates into production environments
- Monitoring systems and applications for errors or performance issues
- Troubleshooting and improving existing software based on user feedback
- Collaboration and communication
- Working closely with product managers, designers, other engineers, and business stakeholders
- Participating in project planning, estimation, and ongoing management
- Documenting functionality so other professionals can understand and support the product
In many organizations, developers are involved in the full software development process, from idea to deployment and ongoing improvement.
Types of software developers
The phrase “software developer” covers several roles. Two broad categories are widely recognized in industry:
- Applications software developers
- Systems software developers
Both groups use software engineering principles and programming skills, but they focus on different types of software.
Applications Software Developers
Applications developers focus on software that people directly interact with—business systems, consumer apps, games, and more. They build programs that run on desktops, mobile devices, web browsers, and the cloud.
Common roles include:
- Front-end developers – Implement the user interface and user experience, making sure the product is visually appealing and easy to use.
- Back-end developers – Build the server‑side logic, databases, and APIs that power applications.
- Full-stack developers – Work across both front-end and back-end layers.
- Web developers – Specialize in websites and browser-based applications.
- Mobile app developers – Create apps for platforms like Android and iOS.
- Game developers – Develop video games for consoles, PCs, and mobile devices.
- Desktop software developers – Create applications that run on desktop operating systems such as Windows, macOS, or Linux.
- Solution architects – Design end‑to‑end systems that combine multiple applications, services, and integration points.
Applications developers must have strong skills in user-centered design, usability, and performance, because they’re responsible for the visible parts of a product.
Systems Software Developers
Systems developers work on operating systems, device drivers, and other low‑level software that supports other applications. Their work is often less visible but absolutely essential.
Typical roles include:
- Operating systems developer – Builds and optimizes core OS components that manage hardware and provide services to applications.
- Embedded systems developer – Creates software that runs on devices like cars, appliances, medical equipment, and IoT sensors.
- Security developer (DevSecOps) – Designs and implements security features, automation, and process controls to protect systems and data.
- DevOps engineer – Automates deployment, monitoring, and management of software applications and infrastructure.
- Data engineer – Develops data pipelines and systems to collect, transform, and store large volumes of information.
Systems developers must have deep knowledge of how computer hardware, networks, and operating systems work. Their software often focuses on performance, reliability, and security.
Key skills software developers must have
Because the role is complex and fast‑changing, software developers must have a mix of technical and professional skills. Employers consistently look for candidates whose software and systems knowledge is backed by strong communication and problem‑solving abilities.
Technical skills
Most software developers must have experience in core areas such as:
- Programming languages – For example: Java, C#, C++, JavaScript and TypeScript, Python, and Web languages (HTML, CSS)
- Software engineering fundamentals – Data structures, algorithms, design patterns, and software development life cycle practices
- Databases and SQL – Designing schema, writing queries, and optimizing data access
- Version control – Tools like Git to track and collaborate on code changes
- Operating systems – Understanding Linux, Windows, macOS, and mobile operating systems
- Containers and cloud platforms – Technologies such as Docker, Kubernetes, and major cloud providers for deploying applications and systems
- Testing and quality assurance – Creating automated tests, using continuous integration tools, and working closely with quality assurance analysts and testers
- Security basics – Applying secure coding practices, encryption, and identity best practices to protect software applications
These technical capabilities help developers create reliable, scalable software that meets demanding requirements.
Professional and soft skills
Technical expertise alone isn’t enough. Successful developers also possess strong professional skills that help them work effectively across a team and within an organization:
- Problem‑solving and analytical thinking
- Collaboration and teamwork across engineers, designers, and business stakeholders
- Effective communication, both written and verbal
- Project planning and time management
- Attention to detail and quality
- Creativity and curiosity to learn new tools, technologies, and process improvements
- Flexibility to adapt as requirements change
These durable skills help software developers thrive in diverse environments, from startups to large enterprises.
Tools and technologies that software developers use
To stay productive and competitive, software developers use a wide range of tools that support the full life cycle of software engineering:
- Integrated development environments (IDEs) – Tools like Visual Studio Code, IntelliJ IDEA, and Eclipse to write and debug code efficiently.
- Collaboration platforms – GitHub, GitLab, or Bitbucket for code hosting, peer review, and team collaboration.
- Issue tracking and project management – Jira, Trello, or Azure Boards to plan work, track progress, and manage requirements.
- Database tools – Studio 3T, DbSchema, or similar tools to design and manage database systems.
- Build, deployment, and automation – CI/CD pipelines, configuration management, and automation frameworks that support continuous delivery and reliable deployment.
- Monitoring and observability – Tools that track performance, errors, and user behavior in production systems so developers can respond quickly to issues.
Choosing the right toolset helps software developers streamline their process, collaborate effectively, and deliver applications that meet business and user needs.
Education and experience are needed for software development careers
There isn’t just one way to become a software developer. Many professionals blend education, self‑study, bootcamps, and certifications to build their skills over time.
Degree programs
Many employers prefer candidates who have earned an associate's or bachelor’s degree in:
- Computer science
- Software engineering
- Information technology
- Computer information systems
- Related STEM fields
Degree programs typically cover programming, algorithms, computer architecture, operating systems, networks, databases, and software engineering processes. Some professionals pursue a master’s degree to deepen their expertise or qualify for specialized roles.
Coding bootcamps and short programs
Coding bootcamps offer intensive, hands‑on programming education in a shorter period—often three to six months. These programs focus on real‑world applications, portfolio projects, and practical skills, making them attractive to career changers and those who can’t commit to a traditional four‑year program.
Professional certifications
Industry certifications help you validate your skills, stand out in a competitive job market, and demonstrate commitment to ongoing education. Certifications can cover foundational IT knowledge, specific programming languages, or specialized software engineering domains.
Examples that support aspiring software developers include:
- CompTIA Tech+ – Builds a broad foundation in IT concepts, ideal if you’re exploring technology careers.
- CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ – Strengthen your understanding of computer hardware, systems, and networking fundamentals, giving you a stronger base for development work.
- Language‑specific certifications, such as Java or Python credentials – Prove expertise with particular programming tools.
You can explore CompTIA’s career roadmap, learning paths, and training resources.
Gaining practical experience
Employers often look for real‑world experience in addition to education. To build your background:
- Participate in internships or apprenticeships
- Complete capstone or class projects focused on realistic applications
- Join hackathons or coding competitions
- Contribute to open‑source software projects
- Create personal projects that demonstrate your ability to design, build, and test software applications
As you complete work, compile a portfolio that highlights your most relevant software projects, systems you’ve developed, and the skills you used.
Software developer career outlook
The demand for skilled software developers remains strong and is expected to grow.
Software development is one of the largest tech occupation categories, with well over a million employed workers in the United States alone. Ten‑year projected growth for software developers is significantly above the national average, driven by digital transformation, cloud computing, mobile applications, data analytics, and cybersecurity needs.
Future trends in software development
Several trends are shaping the future of software development careers:
- Focus on user experience – Organizations increasingly compete on digital experience. Software developers must have a clear understanding of user needs and design intuitive, accessible interfaces.
- Smaller, modular applications – Microservices, serverless computing, and lightweight apps are replacing large monolithic systems, allowing faster updates and targeted functionality.
- AI and automation – Artificial intelligence and automation tools help developers generate code, improve testing, and analyze performance, but they also require new skills to use effectively.
- Security‑first mindset – Growing cyber threats mean developers must design security into every stage of the software engineering process.
- Remote and hybrid work – Distributed teams are becoming standard, so collaboration skills and comfort with online management and communication tools are essential.
Is a software developer career right for you?
If you’re curious about how technology works, enjoy solving complex problems, and like the idea of building digital products that people rely on every day, a career as a software developer can be rewarding.
This path offers:
- Strong job security and high earning potential
- Opportunities across nearly every industry
- The flexibility to work remotely, freelance, or become part of a global team
- Endless chances to learn new technologies and improve your skills
Your next step with CompTIA
CompTIA provides vendor‑neutral education, training, and certifications that can help you start and grow a career in software development and related IT roles.
- Build a foundation with CompTIA Tech+ to confirm your interest in IT and software.
- Strengthen your understanding of computer hardware, networks, and operating systems with CompTIA A+ and Network+.
- Use CompTIA’s free career resources, job guides, and skills roadmaps to plan your journey from beginner to professional developer.
CompTIA offers a variety of training resources and tools that can help you become a confident, job‑ready software developer. View the courses and certifications that can get you started today!