Building a Web3 infrastructure is fundamentally about achieving seamless integration between the front end and blockchain smart contracts. The entire process encompasses front-end development, smart contract writing, deployment, and interaction with the blockchain. Below, we will break it down step by step to help you clarify the complete path to building a Web3 project from scratch.
1. Choose the Right Blockchain Network#
Determine the blockchain network where you want to deploy your smart contract. Ethereum is the most mainstream choice, supporting a rich set of development tools and ecosystem. You can also choose EVM-compatible chains like BSC and Polygon, which have lower transaction fees and faster speeds. After selecting the network, prepare the corresponding RPC node address for easy interaction between the front end and the blockchain.
2. Write Smart Contracts#
Smart contracts are the core logic of Web3, typically written in Solidity. You can use Remix IDE to write and test contracts online or set up a more complex project using local development environments like Hardhat or Truffle.
When writing contracts, pay attention to code security and logical clarity. Common contracts include token contracts (ERC20, ERC721), governance contracts, DeFi protocols, etc. After writing the contract, first deploy it on a testnet to ensure functionality.
3. Deploy Smart Contracts#
Deploying a contract requires a wallet and some on-chain assets (like Ether) to pay for gas fees. Using Hardhat or Truffle can automate the deployment process. After deployment, record the contract address and ABI (contract interface), which are key data for the front end to call the contract.
4. Set Up the Front-End Environment#
The front end is usually developed using modern frameworks like React or Vue. Set up the project structure and install Web3 interaction libraries, such as ethers.js or web3.js. These libraries are responsible for connecting wallets, calling smart contract methods, and listening to on-chain events.
5. Integrate Wallet Connection Functionality#
Users need to interact with the DApp through a wallet. Mainstream wallets include MetaMask and WalletConnect. Integrate wallet connection components to facilitate user authorization and transaction signing. Once connected, the front end can retrieve the user's address, check balances, and send transactions.
6. Interact with Smart Contracts#
Using ethers.js or web3.js, the front end calls contract methods. Calls are divided into "read" and "write" operations. Read operations do not consume gas and directly query on-chain data; write operations require user signatures and gas payment to execute state changes.
Call the balanceOf method of the token contract to check balances and the transfer method to make transfers. The front end must handle transaction statuses and provide user feedback, such as transaction confirmations and failure notifications.
7. Design User Interface and Experience#
User experience in Web3 applications is crucial. Design a simple and clear interface that displays on-chain data and indicates transaction statuses. Consider exceptional situations like network switching and wallet disconnection, providing friendly prompts.
8. Use Essential Tools for Domestic Users to Ensure Access#
Domestic users may encounter domain access restrictions when visiting exchanges or on-chain services. You can utilize the exchange backup domain navigation provided by Hyperlink Navigation to ensure stable access. For example, access OKX, Binance, HTX, Gate, Bitget, Bybit, etc., to facilitate access to on-chain assets and trading support.
9. Testing and Launching#
After completing front-end and contract development, conduct comprehensive testing. Test whether the contract functions correctly and whether the front-end interactions are smooth. The testnet environment simulates real on-chain operations to avoid significant issues after launch.
Once testing is successful, deploy the contract to the mainnet and publish the front end. Continuously monitor contract status and user feedback to promptly fix any issues.
Building a Web3 infrastructure starts with writing and deploying on-chain smart contracts, followed by setting up the front-end environment, integrating wallet connections, and completing on-chain interactions. Every step is crucial, especially contract security and user experience. Domestic users can rely on the exchange backup domains provided by Hyperlink Navigation to ensure smooth access. Mastering this process will enable you to quickly build a fully functional Web3 application.