Should You Hire Freelance .NET Developer? A Definitive Guide

As your business grows, you want someone to overlook the technical aspect of your business processes and systems.

That person's job is vital because it ensures that your people can efficiently carry out their tasks and responsibilities.

It is, however, a mountainous task given only to the best and most qualified.

Choosing someone for the job is quite challenging. You need a developer with a vast knowledge of building and maintaining your website and web applications. At the same time, you need to consider your budget and your company's needs.

Hiring a .NET developer might be a good idea. This article will help you determine which .NET developer is the right one for your business.

What is .NET?

.NET is a free framework developed by Microsoft that enables developers to create websites and software applications across various platforms.

This platform is simple yet pretty flexible. A .NET developer can build apps for desktop, web, mobile, and gaming platforms using multiple libraries, languages, and editors.

.NET is also the most popular development software by Fortune 500 companies. About 34.2% of websites and apps built online use .NET.

Why Do Site Owners Use .NET Above Other Development Frameworks?

There are many reasons why companies prefer .NET, but here are some of the best ones:

• Cost. .NET is available for free. However, you might need to pay for the integrated development environment(IDE). You can either buy an IDE or use a free platform called Visual Studio.

• Independence. .NET developers can create apps that will work on any platform, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. Even mobile apps made using .NET can function on Android, iOS, and Windows devices.
• Reliability. Since .NET is a standalone framework, it doesn't depend on other software to work. So it's more reliable and stable. In addition, aside from Microsoft, a large community of developers contributes to its improvement.
• Performance. .NET uses the Just-In-Time (JIT) compilation, which executes codes only when they're needed. It makes apps built with .NET faster and more responsive.
• Minimal coding. .NET allows developers to write less code through reusable codes and other elements. Your developer can save time and effort, which reduces the overall cost of development.

Here are the essential components of .NET and their functions:

Languages

Languages refer to the different software programming languages supported by the .NET platform. The developer can choose the most comfortable language and start coding the software.

C# is the most popular language used in developing .NET applications. Other languages include Visual Basic and F#. The languages your .NET developer will use will be separated under compilers and run through the Common Language Interpreter (CLI).

You can use these languages and create applications under this three .NET software:

ADO.NET

ADO.NET is a data access technology that provides a way for you to execute commands, retrieve data, and manipulate data in databases.

It enables developers to create database-independent applications using the .NET software. Your website or web applications can run on any database that supports ADO.NET, such as Microsoft SQL Server, InterBase, Oracle Database, and MySQL.

ASP.NET

ASP.NET is a web application framework that allows you to create dynamic websites, web applications, and web services. It's an alternative for ASP .NET Core. 

Your .NET developer can use three frameworks under ASP.NET for software development. They are ASP.Net MVC, Web Forms, and ASP.Net Web Pages. Each framework is reliable, but ASP.Net MVC (Model-View-Controller) allows for more control compared to the other two.

If you're planning to provide a mobile website or single-page application to your audience, ASP.Net MVC enables your developer to create them easily.

Window Forms

Windows Forms is a graphical user interface toolkit that enables you to create desktop applications for the Windows platform. It comprises a set of classes that provide all the necessary functions and controls for web development.

Window Forms applications are easy to create using the visual designer inside the Visual Studio.

Framework Class Library (FCL)

Class library refers to the collection of reusable codes and functions that you can use for multiple applications and purposes.

The FCL enables developers to create software quickly and efficiently, using the existing codes instead of making everything from scratch.

It contains over 70,000 classes, interfaces, and value types that developers can use for different actions such as data access, security, and network communication.

Common Language Runtime (CLR)

CLR is the heart of the .NET. It provides a runtime environment that manages code execution and other system services.

CLR also takes care of memory management, handles errors, provides security, and supports other .NET programming languages.

The Benefits of Using .NET.

Since .NET is a simple yet productive platform, it has many benefits that make it advantageous for businesses and developers. Here are some of them:

Profound Class Library

.NET developers can take advantage of the vast and comprehensive class library for low-level operations and core purposes.

The well-organized namespaces within the class library make it easy for developers to find the right type they need for their projects.

They don't have to waste time creating codes for everyday tasks because they can use the existing ones in the class library.

The simple interface of the class library allows developers to streamline the development process and create high-quality applications quickly. And connect third-party components seamlessly with their classes.

Backward Compatibility

Applications created using a particular version of the .NET can run on a later version without modification.

For example, you created your business website using .NET Framework 4.0. Your website will still run in the newer versions without any problems.

Language Interactivity

With the help of Common Intermediate Language (CIL), any .NET language can interact with each other.

CIL refers to the independent set of instructions created by the .NET language compilers. It simply means that you can use any .NET language to develop an application, and it can still communicate with codes written in other languages.

Memory Management

While other platforms leave the responsibility of organizing and generating memory to the programmer, .NET Framework automatically handles memory management.

It has a Garbage Collector (GC), which is in charge of allocating and releasing objects that are no longer in use by the application.

This way, developers can focus on other essential aspects of their projects and not worry about memory management.

Cross-Platform Targeting

Developers can create applications that can run on different Windows, Linux, and macOS platforms. It is possible because .NET Core (a later version of .NET) is an open-source platform.

They can also target different devices such as smartphones, tablets, and wearables.

What is a .NET Developer?

A .NET developer is responsible for planning, building, and maintaining software applications for business owners. They use .NET with other Microsoft technologies to build premium websites and web applications, desktop software, mobile apps, etc.

The job of a .NET developer doesn't end after creating and publishing a website or software. They also have to provide support and continuously improve their output according to the client's needs.

Web development requires a unique skill set. Most .NET developers are bachelor's degree holders in computer science, electrical or computer engineering, or IT.

Senior vs. Junior .NET Developers

Not all .NET developers or software engineers fall into the same category. Some have years of experience and are considered experts in their field. And some developers are beginners.

Here are the key differences between a senior software and junior net developer:

Supervision

Junior developers usually work on projects under supervision. In contrast, senior developers often have the freedom to work on a project independently.

Experience and Knowledge

A junior software engineer knows one to two languages and usually has 1-3 years of experience. While a senior software engineer has more than five years of experience and mastered multiple programming languages.

Communication

Junior developers might have difficulty collaborating and working with other team members . But senior developers are often good at working with other people and can take charge when needed.

Skillset

Junior .NET developer skills may be limited to coding and only be well-versed in the latest versions of the platform, which are .NET Core and .NET 5.0.

On the other hand, a senior software engineer has a more well-rounded skillset. Besides knowing older versions of .NET Core and other Microsoft technologies, they also have project management and leadership skills.

Salary

Lastly, salaries also differ between junior and senior developers. The latter makes more money because of their years of experience and skillset in software development.

.NET Developer Responsibilities:

Earlier, I gave you a brief overview of what .NET developers do. Here is a more comprehensive list of their responsibilities:

• Planning and executing software development projects according to specifications and customer requirements.
• Using .NET technologies and tools to build websites, desktop, and mobile applications, etc.
• Coordinating with your company's team members and leaders to bring big projects to fruition.
• Testing code during web development to ensure there are no errors or bugs.
• Ensuring that all output is high-quality and user-friendly.
• Providing support to customers or clients who need assistance in using the software.
• Listening to clients' comments and making improvements to current and future projects.
• Keeping up with the latest versions of .NET core.

How Much Do .NET Developers Make?

.NET developers' salaries vary not only in positions but also in the location. Here are some of the yearly average salaries in different countries to give you an idea. 

USA

In the United States, the average salary of .NET developers ranges from $71,000+ to $105,000+. It also matters what state you're living in. For example, a .NET developer in Seattle, Washington, can make more than someone from Dallas, Texas (based on Indeed).

Canada and Australia

For net developers in Canada, the average is from $50,000+ to $71,000+. While in Australia, their income ranges from $59,000+ to $76,000+.

UK and Poland

The average salaries of .NET developers living in the UK and Poland are less than the three countries above. In Poland, a .NET developer can only make around $23,000+ to $31,000+.

While the average .NET developer salary ranges from $47,000+ to $65,000+ in the UK. Like in the United States, the income varies where you work. Developers in Manchester earn more than those who are in Birmingham.

Singapore and India

.NET developers in Asian countries have a more diverse salary range . In India, their income from $15,000+ to $17,000+. While in Singapore, a software engineer for .NET can make $63,000+ to $73,000+.

In most countries, there's a massive difference in the salary of a senior software engineer and a junior software engineer.

Challenges for Hiring a .NET Developer

First, there's a massive demand for .NET developers.

Many employers, and business and site owners, need net developers for their projects. However, they're having a difficult time finding the right .NET developer.  

Some potential reasons why your hiring process becomes a challenge are:

Employers Are Too Slow in the Hiring Process

Since .NET developers are in high demand, they can find a job quickly. Thus, they won't wait too long and will just move on to the next company if you don't get back to them right away.

When some employers are ready to hire the best candidate, the net developer they want is already gone.

Companies Are Looking for the Perfect .NET Developer

Some employers don't want to train net developers. They want someone who knows everything and can work immediately.

For example, they want someone who is excellent at using ASP.NET MVC, SQL Server, and WinForms but is also good at coding in C#, F#, and VB.Net.

The reality is that it's impossible to find a net developer that is an expert in all .Net technologies.

There’s No Clear Indication of Who .NET Developers Are

Net developers can be anyone with the skills needed to build software using the .NET software.

A junior web programmer who knows how to code in C# can be considered a .Net developer. But so can a senior software engineer who specializes in creating software projects using Visual Studio.

However, most recruiters have a narrower view of what .NET developers are. They only consider someone a .NET developer talent if they have a strong understanding of the different aspects of the framework.

Tips for Choosing the Best .NET Developer for Your Organization

Here are some tips to avoid the challenges above and find the right .NET developer for your site and company with ease.

Understand the Basics of .NET

https://youtu.be/eIHKZfgddLM?list=PLdo4fOcmZ0oWoazjhXQzBKMrFuArxpW80

To find the best net developer, you must first understand what .NET development is.

You need to be familiar with the languages used in the framework and different .NET tools such as ADO.NET, ASP.NET MVC, WinForms, etc. In addition, knowing about the industry terminologies would be helpful.

You should know terms and tools like:

• Databases - e.g., Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle Database, etc.
• Front-end development software - e.g., JavaScript, CSS, SaaS and HTML.
• Programming languages - e.g., C++, C#, F#, Python, Java, etc.
• Back-end development and platforms - e.g., Django, ASP.NET Core, and Laravel.
  

Knowing the basics will help you determine what you need and want from your net developer. And it will also aid you in the interview process.

Go to Their Online Spots

.NET developers usually spend their time online, but LinkedIn and Facebook aren't the only places you'll find them. They are also active on other platforms and forums.

You may check the following places to find net developers:

Stack Overflow

It is a popular place where net developers and programmers establish their online credibility. They answer questions, give opinions, and collaborate with other developers on projects.

GitHub

This platform is where net developers go to showcase their skills and portfolio. It's the perfect spot to find .NET development experts.

Reddit and Quora

Although net developers don't usually post their resumes on these forums, they do participate in discussions related to programming, software development, and net development.

Provide a More Specific Job Description

It's time to update your job description. Be specific about the .NET development tools and technologies you want your developer to be knowledgeable about.

For example, if you're looking for someone to create a website using ASP.NET MVC and know how SQL server works, then state that in the job description.

In addition, include the scope of work, timeline, and other requirements in the job post. By doing so, you can streamline your hiring process and eliminate unqualified candidates right from the start.

Prepare Some Technical Questions

Don't just focus on their resume alone, but also on their .NET development expertise. Ask them about their past projects using the platform and their tools.

You can also ask them to differentiate or compare tools and explain how they work. For example, you can ask them to compare ASP.NET MVC and WebForms. You may also ask why C# is better than Visual Basic.

Provide a Testing Period Before Committing to a .NET Developer.

If you want to ensure that you're hiring the right .NET developer, provide some testing trials. By doing so, you can check the developer's skills, how they approach problems, and how well they fit the role.

Conclusion

So do you need a .NET Developer to  scale your online business ? The answer is YES!

.NET developers have the skills and expertise to create dynamic and responsive websites and different types of applications. They can help automate processes and tasks for your online business.

Once you find the perfect .NET developer, you can save time and money in the long run. You won't have to keep looking for someone to build other software for you. Plus, maintaining your website or applications will be so much easier.

Hiring a freelance .NET developer is worth it as they can give the best solutions for your online business problems. So follow the tips above and good luck in your search!