Node.js is one of the best cross-platform JavaScript runtime environments. What does it mean? Using Node.js, you can execute JS code in your browser. It works on the server side of the apps, while you still need to write an HTTP server to run the app.
At the same time, it’s fast and scalable. Before Node.js, web app development was multi-threaded, and that approach was quite impractical for everyone. That’s why the demand for more optimal solutions rose every day until Node.js was developed.
Web apps needed more time to respond and took a lot of memory and CPU resources to work properly. That means many apps were limited, which explains why node js is single-threaded and more practical for development.
Reasons to Learn Node.js
If you want to use a lightweight development environment and provide practical app solutions, then Node.js is what you need. You need to take a long road of learning and practicing before you master it, but we guarantee it’s worth it. Surely, you need to know some JavaScript basics to proceed with learning, but once you are done, you can apply for jobs looking to hire dedicated node.js developer for project purposes.
And if you need more reasons to learn it, here are some of them:
1. Node.js is Easy to Learn
Even junior JavaScript programmers can quickly get used to the Node.js concept. It’s easy to learn if you know the JavaScript basic principles. Additionally, it comes with detailed node js documentation and online resources, making it even easier to get used to.
2. The Demand is Huge
If you go through the Node.js job postings, you will see that there are a few every day. You are eligible for a competitive salary depending on where you are and what responsibilities you have. Most Node.js developers earn enough so they can save some money on the side and still live a comfortable life.
Still, it requires much dedication until you master it, especially if you are sure you want to do this for a longer time.
3. Active and Helpful Community
It’s always easier to learn and grow if you have someone to support you during the process. As we said, Node.js is well-documented, but the vast online community makes the whole experience exciting and challenging.
Many developers contribute to improvements since Node.js is an open-source framework. They also explain their actions pretty well. This way, they inspire the younger developers, making them more dedicated to learning.
How do I Learn Node.js?
You have so many options, but being familiar with JavaScript is a must, as we said previously. We suggest learning the functions, patterns, strings, arrays, objects, etc.
You also have to understand why it’s called Node.js, and yes, it’s because of the blocks we call nodes. Additionally, we suggest understanding the non-blocking concept in Node.js and how it operates.
At this point, we have two leading suggestions.
The first one is to learn how to write code and get as comfortable as you can. After that, you are ready to learn some of the frameworks, like Express, to make the whole development much easier for you.
We don’t say it’s easy to become a Node.js developer, but it surely will be interesting for you to trust the process and mark your progress.
You can use online courses, video tutorials, e-books, and community help to get better at Node.js. You can also sign up for a direct mentorship and work with a professional on your growth.
Sometimes, employers offer courses and in-house training for the team, so ensure you sign up for that too.
When to Use Node.js?
Many server-side apps use Node.js for handling real-time data fluctuations. That means you can build apps that require advanced data processing. What does it mean?
You can build new websites, mailing services, payment protocols, or even social media services.
All you have to do is to learn Node.js, download and install it, practice your knowledge, and try to get better than that.
Successful Companies That use Node.js
As you expect, many big companies already use Node.js for their services. And you probably use at least one of them every day.
Think about what you use if you want to see new job postings or find work-related resources. You are right; LinkedIn is based on Node.js and your favorite streaming platform, Netflix.
If you use PayPal to process payments, then again, you are getting in touch with Node.js. Also, Mozilla is based on the very same runtime environment, just like Trello, Uber, Medium, eBay, and Groupon. Even NASA uses Node.js for its web services.
These companies prove that Node.js is a scalable environment offering balanced and easy-to-distribute solutions.
Pros and Cons of Node.js
Node.js is fast and great for real-time web development. It’s one of the most significant advantages and its supportive community. As you’ve seen, many tech giants already use Node.js for their services.
So, it comes naturally to ask if there are any disadvantages.
We must include that it can’t really handle CPU-demanding tasks. Also, you must pass callbacks to every function, which may consume more time than expected.
What’s the conclusion?
Even though big tech companies already use Node.js, the environment has some limitations we must be aware of. It’s perfect for various projects, but sometimes, you will need other solutions to provide exceptional software.
Final Thoughts
Tech development is the most powerful tool we have today in our hands. But, many technologies have their own advantages and disadvantages. If something works well, it doesn’t mean it’s suitable for everything.
Node.js can be one of the most optimal development solutions, but it still has some limits. But it doesn’t mean it’s not a good choice for your career path.
So, one of the things you need to know before mastering Node.js is the fact it’s not an almighty solution, and developers aren’t wizards.
That way, you can have a less-stressful time learning it. Still, it’s one of the best career choices you can embrace, so go for it.
