Boosting blockchain adoption by keeping tech on the back end

Understanding the difference between the front and back end is crucial with Web3 technology. The term “front end” describes the portion of Web3 applications that consumers interact with directly. This includes the technology’s user-facing side, websites and decentralized applications (DApps). 

The back end, on the other hand, refers to the complex system that supports these Web3 applications. Everything from distributed ledgers and smart contracts to consensus protocols is included here.

However, accessibility and simplicity are important for the adoption of Web3. When the technical complexities of Web3 are too prominently featured on the front end — such as managing cryptographic keys or understanding blockchain concepts — it can alienate a significant portion of potential users. It is important to make the user experience and interactions smooth and easy to understand so that the end-user doesn’t have to worry about the technical details.

By prioritizing accessibility and simplicity, Web3 technology can be more inviting to diverse users. This approach helps bridge the gap between early adopters well-versed in blockchain technology and the broader mainstream audience.

Harrison Hines, CEO and co-founder of Fleek, a Web3 app development platform, told Cointelegraph, “Simplicity and accessibility were key to the mainstream growth of computers, smartphones, mobile apps and even very recently with AI. Concealing technical complexities on the back end follows the same logic. Developers are also end users, and they need tools/infrastructure that is easy to use and build with.”

Benefits of hiding Web3 in the back end

User experience can be improved by making blockchain-based apps easier to navigate. When users are shielded from the technical complexities associated with blockchain technology and cryptographic keys, they can engage with Web3 applications in a manner that feels similar to using traditional web applications. This streamlined experience encourages users to explore and adopt Web3 applications without being intimidated by their complexity.

Simplified onboarding for non-technical users

When the onboarding process is straightforward, individuals unfamiliar with blockchain technology can quickly get started with Web3 applications. This approach reduces the learning curve and empowers a more extensive and diverse user base to access the benefits of Web3 without needing a deep understanding of its technical aspects.

For example, Immutable Passport simplifies the onboarding process for WAGMI Defense users by offering a straightforward and password-free sign-up experience. With just a few taps, users can create an account, eliminating the need for password management. In conjunction, Passport establishes a noncustodial wallet in the background, providing a secure repository for users’ digital assets.

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Authentication options are streamlined, allowing users to choose from well-known methods such as Google, Apple or email sign-ins.

Passport’s interoperability feature also allows for seamless logins across all games and marketplaces within the Immutable ecosystem.

This approach ensures a user-friendly experience, particularly for those not familiar with Web3 technologies. According to Web3 gaming franchise WAGMI Games, this feature enables it to onboard more players.

Kostas Kroustaloudis, development director at WAGMI Games, told Cointelegraph, “Simplifying the onboarding process for non-technical users is pivotal to driving mainstream adoption of Web3 technology. The majority of individuals have little patience for intricate, technical interfaces.”

Kroustaloudis continued, “In fact, the likelihood of someone uninstalling an app skyrockets with each additional click or tap required to reach their goal. This is especially crucial when introducing gamers to new titles. The difference between success and failure can often hinge on the reduction of just one extra click.”

Attracting more users and developers

Keeping Web3 tech in the back end can help to bridge the gap between early adopters and mainstream users, expanding the Web3 user base beyond the tech-savvy and blockchain enthusiasts. As Web3 applications become indistinguishable from their traditional counterparts in terms of user experience, they are more likely to attract users who might have hesitated to explore the technology due to its perceived complexities.

According to some experts, making it easier to build apps that hide Web3 components in the back end can attract more developers, bringing more Web3 apps to market.

Fleek’s Hines said, “The main benefit is making it easier and more accessible for more developers to build applications using Web3 technologies in their backends.”

Hines continued, “It’s just a numbers game. The more developers you have…