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Node.js and Express API Guide

Aug 29, 2024

Node.js and Express API Tutorial Notes

Introduction

  • 7 hours of Node.js tutorials
  • 15 tutorials building projects
  • Covers fundamentals of Node.js, Express.js, and MongoDB

Prerequisites

  • Basic knowledge of JavaScript, HTML, and CSS required

Node.js Overview

  • JavaScript runtime built on Chrome's V8 engine
  • Not a new language, framework, or library
  • Runs on the server (back end)
  • Use terminal to interact with Node.js
  • Visual Studio Code recommended for coding

First Steps with Node.js

  1. Create project folder and server.js file.
  2. Use terminal commands to run JavaScript.
  3. Understand the global object and common core modules.
  4. Use CommonJS modules for imports.
  5. Create custom modules (e.g., math.js).

File System Module

  • Read, write, and delete files using the file system module.
  • Handle file paths and directory names with path module.

NPM (Node Package Manager)

  • Install packages for Node.js.
  • npm init to initialize a new project.
  • Use npm install to add dependencies.

Middleware

  • Middleware functions are executed in the order they are defined.
  • Use app.use() to apply middleware to all routes.

Routing

  • Set up routes for different HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE).
  • Use route handlers in separate controller files to keep code organized.

User Authentication and Authorization

  • Use JWT (JSON Web Tokens) for user authentication.
  • Implement security measures such as passwords, authentication, and user roles.

MongoDB Integration

  • Use Mongoose to interact with MongoDB.
  • Create schemas and models for structured data.
  • Implement CRUD operations using Mongoose methods.

Current State of App Development

  • Implemented user registration and login routes.
  • Set up refresh token and logout functionality.
  • Managed user roles (admin, editor, user).
  • Handled authentication and authorization using JWTs.

Deployment

  • Use platforms like Glitch to deploy Node.js applications.
  • Use environment variables to manage sensitive information.
  • Integrate with front-end frameworks like React to complete full-stack applications.

Conclusion

  • Focus on continuous learning and improvement.
  • Utilize the resources available (e.g., documentation, tutorials) for further development.

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