241,340
This is the number of websites built using NodeJS.
Twitter, Fiverr, Adobe, Nytimes, and Spotify are some of the most popular websites built with Node.JS.
The signal is loud and clear that Node.js is becoming increasingly popular and companies are using it to develop scalable mobile apps, web apps, and even IoT-based products.
But does it make sense for you to use Node.js for backend web development?
Here in this blog, we will help you make an informed decision by sharing the benefits you can get with NordJS backend web development. We will also help you know cases when you shouldn’t consider using NodeJS.
So, let’s get started.
Node.js Overview
Generally speaking, NodeJS is neither a framework nor a library.
It is a JavaScript runtime environment built on Google Chrome’s V8 engine.
The primary use case of the NodeJS is to allow developers to execute JavaScript codes on the sides of the server including frontend and backend.
Node.js was written by Ryan Dahl in 2009. Ryan was inspired by JavaScript’s great capabilities, at the same time challenged by JavaScript’s inability to be used outside of the browser.
Node.js leverages Google V8 JavaScript virtual machine to interpret JavaScript codes outside the browser.
To be put into simple words, NodeJS was introduced to extend the capabilities of JavaScript from client-side web scripting language to run on the backend.
What are the Benefits of Choosing Node.js for Backend Web Development?
Website development is one of the biggest decisions a business makes. Therefore it is worth some time to invest in the best technologies that are most suitable for business.
Here we have highlighted the benefit of using NodeJs for backend development:
1. Developing Real-Time Web Applications Become a Lot Easier With NodeJS
Do you want to develop real-time web applications like chat, remote collaboration, video streaming, online payment services and so more? If yes, then NodeJs is your go-to choice.
Node.js employs event-based and non-blocking server capabilities which serve as the foundation for the development of real-time website applications.
2. Data Streaming
In terms of NordJS’ features, its ability to handle I/O is unmatched. It is equipped with top-notch I/O handling which makes it easy for web developers to develop a web application that streams data while simultaneously transcoding media files.
Also, the process of reading and writing streams to WebSockets becomes a lot easier.
3. Easy Learning Curve
One of the most favored things about NodeJS is its JavaScript-based system. As we know, the majority of the developers are familiar with JavaScript, thus getting onboard with NodeJS becomes an easy deal. Moreover, NodeJS requires less effort, time and provides the convenience of using JavaScript for both server-side and client-side.
4. Reduces the Response Time
NodeJS employs the single-threaded event loop model which means it executes the instructions in a single sequence. To be explained in simple words, one command is processed at a time. This makes it easy for web developers to handle the concurrent user base.
5. Promote the Development of SEO-Friendly Web Applications
Every business invests in web app development with one single mission that is expanding its reach which converts into better revenue. When you choose NodeJS, better reach for your business is assured.
NodeJS is equipped with backed rendering that goes a long way to boost your website presence on search engines.
These days search engines rank those websites higher that perform well in terms of speed and performance. This is where NodeJS takes the lead.
6. Active Community
NodeJS has a very active community that has contributed to the development of NodeJS. Whenever developers face any challenges, they can share their problems on the community channel, and their fellow developers will answer the questions promptly.
7. Control Flow Features
Whenever a function executes, it generates and sends a callback action. With the increased user base, the number of functions also increases, and as a result the number of callback actions also increases. This creates a situation known as the callback hell.
With NodeJS developers can map the functions and sort all the callback actions to get desired information needed for development operations.
8. Scalability
Node.js is both lightweight and fast, above all, it is scalable with the potential to upgrade the web applications according to the growth of a business.
By using Node.js as the foundation web developers can develop web applications that will grow simultaneously as the business grows.
9. Full Stack JavaScript
Before the introduction of Node.js JavaScript was only used for client-side development. JavaScript created the way for JavaScript to be used as the backend development framework. With Node.js developers can write both frontend and backend web applications using JavaScript.
When You Shouldn’t Consider Using Node.js?
It is an undeniable fact that Node.js has proven to be a boon for JavaScript developers. However, still, there are some use cases when you shouldn’t consider using ṣNode.js for backend development.
Let’s have a quick overview of the bad use of Node.js:
Developing Finance Web Application
If you are thinking of developing a finance-related web application then using Node.js is not the right choice for you?
Finance-related web applications require the use of floating decimal points- which can lead to the accumulation of errors that will cause the loss to the business. There are multiple Node.js tools available to be used for calculations but none of them are precise.
Web Application Which Requires Complex CPU Calculations
You should avoid using NodeJS for developing web applications that require the assistance of a CPU. Developing such applications with NodeJS will result in poor performance and a lack of stability. In other words, heavy computation is something that is not the cup of tea for Node.js.
A Basic CRUD or HTML Web Applications
Using Node.js doesn’t make sense in cases where the data server straightly shares the data with the user without the involvement of API. The explanation behind this is that Node.js is superfluous when such a situation occurs.
When You Prefer Quick Deployment of Web Application
In comparison to Ruby and Rails, starting with Node.js requires a lot of time and effort as well for novice developers due to the lack of documentation support. Moreover, with Node.js every single line of code needs to be written from scratch which results in reducing the deployment productivity. Less productivity means higher development time. So if you are looking for quick deployment of web applications then NodeJS is not the right choice for you.
Moving Forward: Is Node.js the Pick for Your Next Web Development Project?
NodeJS has a lot of benefits to offer both entrepreneurs and developers, but you won’t be able to unlock them unless you have the right team of NodeJS developers on your side.
There are an overwhelming number of NodeJS development companies, which leads entrepreneurs to fear of choosing the wrong one that could harm the credibility of their project.
There are some common practices you can follow to select the ideal NodeJS development company that aligns with your business needs. Pay utmost attention to the client reviews and the portfolio of the company. Portfolio speaks of the expertise of the company louder than the service page. If possible, prefer to choose a company that has a specialization in NodeJS development services rather than choosing a general web development company.
If you are lacking a reference for good Node.js web development companies, then you can consider checking out the App Development Agency list of top Node.js development companies. Explore the options of the best companies and choose the one that helps you achieve all your development goals on time and on budget.
FAQs
1. Node.js vs Python: Which Programming Language to Choose?
Python is an ideal choice for backend development. While NodeJS can be used for both frontend and backend web development projects. In order to select one between Python vs NodeJS, you should have a clear knowledge of your project requirements. Choose the one that aligns with your project requirement to yield favorable outcomes.
2. Does Using Nodejs For Backend Web Development In 2022 Make Sense?
Without an iota of doubt, NodeJS is a powerful, scalable choice for backend web development. If you are considering developing a real-time web application then nothing makes the best choice than NodeJS.