Why Node.js and Express?
Node.js, paired with the Express framework, enables developers to build fast, scalable web applications using JavaScript. This article walks you through creating a basic web application with Node.js and Express, covering setup, routing, and middleware.
1. Installing Node.js and Express
Install Node.js from its official site, then set up Express in a new project: npm init -y followed by npm install express. This creates a basic project structure.
2. Creating a Simple Server
Create an index.js file with a basic Express server:
const express = require('express');
const app = express();
app.get('/', (req, res) => res.send('Hello, World!'));
app.listen(3000, () => console.log('Server running'));
Run it with node index.js and visit localhost:3000.
3. Adding Routes
Define routes for different endpoints, such as app.get('/about', (req, res) => res.send('About Page'));. Organize routes in separate files for larger applications.
4. Using Middleware
Middleware functions process requests, like logging or authentication. For example, app.use(express.json()) parses JSON request bodies. Custom middleware can validate inputs or handle errors.
Conclusion
Node.js and Express offer a lightweight, flexible framework for web development. Experiment with templates like EJS or connect to databases like MongoDB to build dynamic applications. With practice, you can create robust APIs and full-stack apps efficiently.