Of the many development tools available, a recommended and highly adaptable tool is Node.js. This is a runtime environment built to utilize JavaScript. It’s used by major corporations such as Uber, PayPal, Walmart, GoDaddy, and LinkedIn. For developers who are new to Node.js or are looking to learn how to use it, let’s look at what they can do to excel as a Node.js developer.
What exactly is Node.js?
This program takes JavaScript code beyond web browsers and can execute it. It’s open-sourced, as well as compatible across various platforms. Additionally, Node.js compiles the code it receives from JavaScript, turns it into a code compatible with the computer it’s being run on, and enhances the performance of the application it’s integrated with. Businesses like Node.js because it’s a tool that creates stability within an application.
Node.js can be used to make single-page, web, and video streaming apps. It even has its own frameworks:
- NestJS
- Meteor.js
- AdonisJS
- Express.js
Necessary Skills to Be an Excellent Node.js Developer
- In-depth knowledge of CSS, HTML, and other front-end tools.
- Understand how to program asynchronously.
- Experience using server-side CSS frameworks (i.e., Stylus, etc.).
- Implement proper error management skills.
- Have an extensive practice with authorization and authentication across various platforms and tools.
- Know how to integrate data.
Other Elements of Node.js
- Node Package Manager (NPM)
This allows developers to take a pre-made library within Node.js and merge it with an application’s code. It decreases development time and the amount of code needed, thus making it a very important tool.
- ELK & Prometheus
These monitoring systems help the Development and Operations (or DevOps) systems function together smoothly. Learning how to use them appropriately can enhance the functionality of an app.
- JSON
The JavaScript Object Notation, or JSON, is a file format that holds an app’s metadata. Data within a JSON file consists of dependencies and packages, both of which are important for an app.
- Deployment Engines
In terms of user experiences, deployment engines are designed to find flaws in the development process. They collect data (i.e., elements, packages, files, etc.) on installations and holds the information.
Node.js in a Nutshell
Developers often argue that not many development tools outclass Node.js—the exceptions being tools like C and C++. Node.js runs well on the back-end side of development and is preferred over other tools when creating an Application Programming Interface (API). One skill all developers must have to use Node.js is experience with JavaScript since that is its programming language. Since JavaScript is incredibly popular as well, most developers already have basic knowledge and experience with it.
In terms of the demand for Node.js developers, the tech industry has seen a significant rise in those numbers in the past year. Ideally, Node.js is best used for editing apps like Google Docs and interactive drawing apps. Developers with JavaScript experience, even at a basic level, could learn to use Node.js in as little as a few weeks!
