Learn SOLANA-RUST with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 25, 2025
Explain
Solana programs are written in Rust and compiled to Berkeley Packet Filter (BPF) bytecode for deployment on Solana.
Rust ensures memory safety and prevents common runtime errors through strict type checks and ownership rules.
Programs interact with Solana accounts for state management.
Used in DeFi, NFTs, gaming, and high-performance blockchain applications.
Leverages Solana’s parallel runtime for scalable transaction processing.
Core Features
Accounts and PDAs for state storage
Instruction processing functions
Cross-program invocations (CPI)
Event logging and error handling
Anchor framework integration for easier development
Basic Concepts Overview
Program: Solana smart contract
Account: persistent storage on-chain
Instruction: single function call to a program
PDA: program-derived address for secure state
CPI: cross-program invocation for modular design
Project Structure
programs/ - Rust source code
tests/ - unit and integration tests
migrations/ - deployment scripts
Anchor.toml or Cargo.toml - project config
README.md - documentation
Building Workflow
Write Rust program using Solana SDK or Anchor
Compile to BPF bytecode
Deploy to Solana devnet/testnet
Test using local validator or devnet
Integrate with frontend via Solana Web3.js or Anchor client
Difficulty Use Cases
Beginner: simple token program
Intermediate: NFT minting program
Advanced: decentralized exchange program
Expert: on-chain gaming or DeFi aggregator
Auditor: verify memory safety and account logic
Comparisons
Solana Rust vs Solidity: Rust is high-performance, memory-safe, Solana-specific; Solidity targets EVM.
Solana Rust vs Clarity: Rust is Turing-complete, Clarity is decidable and predictable.
Solana Rust vs Vyper: Both memory-safe, Rust compiled to BPF, Vyper to EVM bytecode.
Solana Rust vs Anchor SDK: Anchor is a framework for Rust programs; Rust is the underlying language.
Solana Rust vs Move: Move focuses on resource safety; Rust emphasizes performance and concurrency.
Versioning Timeline
2017–2018 – Solana and Rust program support introduced
2019 – Solana mainnet beta launched
2020 – Anchor framework released
2021 – Enhanced CPI and account features
2022–2025 – Ecosystem growth and developer tooling improvements
Glossary
BPF: Berkeley Packet Filter, Solana program bytecode
Anchor: framework for Solana Rust development
PDA: program-derived address
CPI: cross-program invocation
SPL: Solana Program Library, standard token programs