Understanding Express.js
Express.js is a minimal and flexible Node.js web application framework that provides a robust set of features for building web and mobile applications. It simplifies the development process, allowing developers to create server-side applications with ease. By leveraging JavaScript on the server, Express.js offers a seamless transition for those already familiar with the language.
Key Features of Express.js
One of the standout features of Express.js is its middleware capabilities. Middleware functions are essential for handling requests, responses, and various other tasks in the application lifecycle. This allows for enhanced functionality, such as logging, authentication, and error handling. Additionally, Express.js does not impose strict rules on the application architecture, which gives developers the freedom to structure their projects as they see fit.
Getting Started with Express.js
To create a simple Express.js application, you first need to set up Node.js on your machine and install the Express package. Once you’ve installed Express.js, you can start creating your API routes and middleware functions within your application. This flexibility, combined with a rich ecosystem of plugins and tools, makes Express.js a popular choice for backend development.