Solidity

November 21, 2023 - Around 2 mins mins to read

What Is Solidity?

Solidity is a high-level object-oriented programming language that is primarily used for the Ethereum blockchain. It is a powerful tool for writing smart contracts, which are self-executing code that enable complex automated functions. Solidity interacts with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), which acts as the abstraction layer between the executing code and execution machine. The language takes inspiration from C++, Python, and JavaScript.

In order to be executed, Solidity code needs to be compiled into low-level machine instructions called Opcodes, as the EVM does not directly compile it. Solidity is user-friendly and easy to write code in, especially for those with existing programming knowledge. Although initially proposed by Solidity and Polkadot founder Gavin Woods in 2014, it was developed by the Ethereum foundation and Solidity project team.

This statically-typed programming language verifies the program’s source code to discourage type errors and syntax issues. Solidity also supports inheritance, user-defined complex objects, and libraries. It has empowered developers to create innovative types of complex and automated financial, gaming, auction-based, management, and other applications.

However, like any programming language, Solidity has its challenges. Firstly, the immutable nature of the blockchain ensures that once a smart contract is deployed, it cannot be taken down or modified in any way. This means that every line of code must be flawless, as any imperfections could lead to hacking or exploitation, given that the contract exists as long as the Ethereum network does. Solidity is also susceptible to reentrancy attacks and other security issues. Since it was designed before the deployment of the Ethereum network, its design needs to be updated to meet today’s requirements.