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5 Best Nodejs Frameworks for Web Apps in 2022

Posted on October 1, 2021October 9, 2024 by galaxy-admin

Node.JS is increasingly getting popular amongst developers, so much so that 4 out of 5 developers rate Node.JS as their go-to choice for backend development.

In this blog, we will take a look at some of the best Node.JS frameworks. These frameworks are rated based on their popularity and unique toolsets for cost and time-efficient development.

CTOs choose a framework that helps them minimize resource consumption and reduce the time to market. Our list of the top 5 Node.js frameworks will also help you choose the best Node.JS framework for your software solution.

Express.js

Launched in 2010, Express.js is a minimalistic and straightforward framework. It’s beginner-friendly as it has a low learning curve. It just requires a basic understanding of the Node.js environment and programming skills.

Express.js is fast, robust, and asynchronous. It can easily handle high-speed I/O operations. It provides a robust Application User Interface (API), making client-to-server requests and visible user interactions more streamlined.

Companies like Twitter, Uber, Accenture, and IBM deploy applications built with Express.

Features:

MVC Architectural pattern
Asynchronous programming for independent multiple operations
HTTP helpers
Better content negotiation

When to use Express.js

Express.js offers robust routing, templating, security, and error handling, making it suitable for building enterprise-grade or browser-based applications. Using Express.js you can develop apps faster as it’s already equipped with all the things needed to build APIs and more.

Koa.js

Dubbed as the next-generation Node.js framework, Koa.js is among the best in the lot. Koa takes a stack-like approach to deal with HTTP middleware, making it a great option for easily building APIs.

Koa is quite similar to Express.js, so switching from either is fairly easy. While it provides the same flexibility and features, Koa further tones down the complexities faced while writing code.

Features:

Multiple levels of customizations
Referred to as a lightweight version of Express.js
Comes with cascading middleware (Personalizing user experience)
Normalizes node inconsistencies
Cleans cache supports proxy and content negotiation

When to use Koa.js

Use Koa.js when performance is the top priority for your web application. In certain scenarios, Koa outperforms Express.js, so you can pick it up for large-scale projects.

One thing to note here is that it is less popular than Express and is backed by a smaller community. So if you have a beginner team, please research carefully before you opt for Koa.js as answers and solutions to problems (usually populated by the community) may be scarce.

Meteor.js

Launched in 2012, Meteor is best for teams that like to speak in one language, that is Javascript. Meteor is an open-source, isomorphic, Javascript framework. It comes equipped with comprehensive libraries and testing features to ensure seamless client-server communication. It can be used to develop apps for Android, iOS, and desktop all wrapped in one language, Javascript.

Meteor is perfect for contemporary real-time applications as it facilitates the instantaneous transfer of data between client and server.

Features:

Cross-platform framework
Rapid prototypes with CLI
Open-source, backed by a great community
Full-stack solution
Easily integrates with other frameworks

When to use Meteor.js

Meteor is a great choice for teams that are familiar with and prefer Javascript. It is beginner-friendly as it has a low learning curve. It’s also great when you’re looking to develop apps for both web and mobile. Meteor is also ideal for apps that require a lot of updates to be pushed even in live environments.

Socket.io

Socket.IO is a Javascript library best suited for real-time web applications. Socket is used when efficient real-time and bi-directional communication between web clients and servers is required.

You must have seen this in real-time chat apps that you use like Skype or Whatsapp, it continuously looks and refreshes background processes for updates or messages.

The Socket library consists of two parts: a client-side that runs in the browser, and a server-side library for Node.js. Both have similar APIs.

Companies like Bepro, Barogo, and Patreon, use Socket.io.

Features:

Binary support
Multiplexing support
Reliability
Auto-reconnection support
Error detection & auto-correction

When to use Socket.io

As mentioned earlier, Socket.io feels at home building real-time applications like chat rooms, video conferencing, and multiplayer games, where servers are required to send data before it’s even requested from the client-side.

Nest.js

This object-oriented and functional reactive programming(FRP) based Node.js framework comes equipped with extensive libraries that makes it a great choice for building dynamic and scalable enterprise-grade applications. Nest.js is known for preserving compatibility with a subset of Javascript(built with Typescript). It also goes even further to provide painless integration with frameworks like Fastify and Express.

Features:

Modern CLI
FRP
Numerous easy-to-use external libraries
Direct compatibility with Angular is a plus

When to use Nest.js

When you’re looking to build efficient and scalable web applications for large projects. It comes with a clean and modular architecture pattern which helps developers build scalable and maintainable applications with ease.

Conclusion

The listed Node.js frameworks are only the tip of the iceberg of contemporary app development, but they will help you narrow down the best you can use for your specific development needs. These frameworks not only make the development effortless but also equips your apps with the modern tools needed to succeed.

Technology would change and new frameworks will emerge, but a close assessment of your business requirements and resource availability will facilitate your decision to choose the right framework for your projects.

About Galaxy

We specialize in delivering end-to-end web application design & development services and have hands-on experience with popular back-end languages and frameworks like Node.js, Python, etc. We have expertise in customizing websites for multiple business or web application development requirements. Contact us for your project discussion today.

8 Reasons Why Node.js is the Best Choice to Develop Ecommerce Web Apps

Posted on August 23, 2021October 9, 2024 by galaxy-admin

From a technical standpoint, an Ecommerce platform is a complex system. It needs to be user-friendly and easy-to-navigate at the frontend, and robust yet responsive at the backend. To make all the pieces work together, you’ll need dependable technology to back it up.

The Node.js framework is fast and scalable, but is it a good fit for your platform? Let’s find out.

It is a wise decision to create an Ecommerce app or website. While the store needs to look good and have a great user experience that can lead to more conversions, we also believe that the backend must be robust. Node.js is among our favorites in building Ecommerce websites.

Why do we recommend Node.js to create Ecommerce applications

Node.js is a JavaScript environment that allows you to create high-performance, scalable apps. It’s ideal for real-time collaboration tools, chats, streaming mobile apps, and other applications that require multiple I/O operations. If you want to read more about the technology, here’s a primer to Node.JS. It is essentially a server-side platform built on Google Chrome’s V8 engine. Node.js is well-known for its fast and scalable applications, as well as its extensive library of JavaScript library modules.

One of the most likely reasons Node.js is the best choice for Ecommerce web applications development is that it provides stability and aids in the incorporation of critical features such as a cart, payment gateways, and shopping options.

Furthermore, Node.js provides the benefit of rapid prototyping. You should be aware that top brands such as eBay, Uber, PayPal, LinkedIn, Netflix, Walmart, and the American Space Agency NASA use Node.js to build their primary applications. It could then be your turn to shine brightly among the stars.

Let us look at the main reasons why Node.js is the best choice for developing Ecommerce web apps:

#1 Performance

Node.js facilitates multitasking by producing better results at a lower cost. It is much more convenient vis-a-vis other backend options.
The buyer’s journey at an Ecommerce store involves numerous operations. The list includes adding items to the basket, changing product features, selecting payment methods, and so on. It is critical from the standpoint of performance that the technology serves such tasks efficiently.
Node.js is also capable of handling multiple operations at the same time, making it an excellent choice for Ecommerce development.

#2 Scalability

Node.js allows for rapid scalability. Your Ecommerce store can grow significantly in a short period. It is an important consideration when selecting a technology. Node.js includes a mechanism for managing scalability and tailoring it to your specific requirements.

#3 Cross-Platform JavaScript Platform

One of the most significant advantages of Node.js is that it functions as a cross-platform development platform. In most cases, developers must be familiar with at least two programming languages to code, but Node.js is said to be an exception.

It can be implemented appropriately for both client-side and server-side applications. It also allows developers to choose code reusability if there is any modification. Isn’t it clear why Node.js is ruling the world of web applications today?

#4 Many Plugins and Packages in npm

Node.js includes a plethora of packages that can be easily integrated into your mobile or web app. As a result, instead of having to write everything from scratch, developers can rely on dependable open-source solutions. It significantly accelerates the development of Ecommerce. There are also excellent Ecommerce packages available.

#5 Budget-Friendly

Despite working in real-time, the Node.js I/O model is very effective and does not obstruct I/O operations. The website application can be updated more quickly.

It lowers development costs because you don’t need to hire two separate teams for front-end and back-end development. Only experienced Node.js resources will do justice to your project.

#6 One Language on Back-end and Front-end

Node.js is a JavaScript-based development environment, and it is used by many popular front-end frameworks (such as React, Ember, and Angular). As a result, you can create isomorphic applications written in a single language. It simplifies the development process, makes communication between front- and back-end teams much easier, and allows them to better understand both sides of the codebase. You could have a smaller and more efficient team that is easier to manage. Finally, because there is no technological diversity, recruiting new employees in the event of growth will not be a problem.

#7 Big and Active Community

A very active and vibrant community of Node.js developers contributes to Node.js’ continuous improvement. Due to this collaboration, the framework is well documented, and is being continuously supported, which makes the development process much easier and faster for everyone involved! Plugins, modules, plugins, and many other possibilities are available. In addition, if a problem arises, you’re likely to find the solution on StackOverflow.com.

Whereas, open-source JavaScript platforms such as Node.js have the advantage of having access to professional and well-experienced developers who can assist you in code correction and adding more functionality or features to your Ecommerce website.

#8 Uniformity in Data Streaming

Using Node.js, any HTTP request and its corresponding response travel through one data stream. Consequently, the files are much easier to process, which is great for Ecommerce sites that load N items at a time. As a result of the speedy uploading of the videos, customers can make quick purchase decisions.

Final Thoughts

In addition to Node.js, you’ll also need to consider what technologies you’ll be using for building your Ecommerce store. Everything must be consistent, including the frameworks and solutions. To avoid this, it’s best to use one of the Ecommerce platforms mentioned in the previous section. As a result, you’ll be able to avoid a lot of issues that could arise during the development of the app.

Node.js can be faster than other technologies in many cases. For building Ecommerce stores, it has proven to be a stable and fast solution. Software development is made easier and faster with the help of several ready-made frameworks.

It’s important to note that the selection of a technology stack is based on many factors. Write to us, and we’ll help you make the right decision.

About Galaxy Weblinks

We specialize in delivering end-to-end web application design & development services and have hands-on experience with popular back-end frameworks like Node.js, Python, etc. We have expertise in customizing websites using multiple platforms, be it Shopify, Woocommerce, Magento. Contact us for your Ecommerce project today.

Node.js vs Python | Which Backend Framework to Choose?

Posted on July 7, 2021October 9, 2024 by galaxy-admin

Choosing the right backend technology for your project is a decision that can have a long-term impact on your software. A favorable decision will be robust and easier to scale while a wrong one could send you down the path of rewriting the entire app, costing you time, money, and team morale in the process.

Backend technologies are directly attributed to the stability, performance, and scalability of systems, hence thorough research is needed before making the decision. This blog will help you with that research.

We’ll be comparing Node.js and Python on the following grounds:

Frameworks, libraries, and community
Use cases
Learning curve
Scalability
Performance

Backstory

Initially used in data sciences, Python has been ranking in web development as the most popular backend language since 2018-19.

Python is a programming language while Node.js, a runtime environment, on the other end boasts of a speedy V8 which makes it a popular choice for real-time server applications.

So when you’re choosing either for your application take their respective ecosystems and how they fare for you into consideration.

Frameworks, Libraries, and Community

Python has Django and Flask as the most popular frameworks in its arsenal. Python also has support for rich libraries for various projects like:

Panda for data analysis
OpenCV for image processing
matplotlib or Numpy for data visualization
TensorFlow/Scikit-Learn/PyTorch for machine learning
Raspberry Pi for robotic applications

When it comes to Node.js, NPM(Node Package Manager) is one of the richest libraries out there with about 1 million packages available. The most popular and dependable packages are:

express.js – a MEAN stack microframework
Nest.js – This framework is Node’s answer to Django
lodash for modular utilities
react for UI.

Takeaway

Both frameworks boast a rich ecosystem and libraries, which makes them a difficult choice. It comes down to your project and its inherent needs. If you think Python has the libraries that would make your life easier, then that’s the one you should go for. Same with Node.js!

Node.js vs Python use cases

Comparing Node.js and Python superficially is futile because both are robust and actively supported. To solve this mystery we have to dive into details.

Python can be seen as a general-purpose language and hence is suitable for a vast range of applications. You can build web apps, machine learning projects, numerical computations, and even deep learning. The Banking and Insurance sector has a default inclination towards Python for the backend as it’s strong and natural at handling big data sets.

When we talk about real-time and web-based projects that are data-intensive like chatting or streaming platforms, Node.js is the best option. Developers choose Node.js because of its asynchronous nature. It is ideal for projects that don’t require heavy processing and are good with I/O operations. Node.js is also preferred for memory-intensive applications like rendering 3D projects.

Takeaway

Choose Node.js for small and extremely fast run-time apps.
Choose Python for large systems with huge datasets that require stability and consistency

Learning curve

Node.js is not a challenge to those who are adept at JavaScript. You can even utilize the same language to build the frontend as well as the backend of your application. Node, however, is natively asynchronous. The new developers find it hard to wrap their heads around in comparison to synchronous Python.

Python, on the other hand, is known as the easiest backend language to learn, as far as earlier phases are concerned. It is a compact and very well-documented language.

Takeaway:

If your team is familiar with asynchronous code then it might be easier to go with Node.js. You’d still need to hire backend experts for complex problems.
Even though introductory Python is dubbed as the easiest backend language to learn, the difficulty increases with the complexity of the problems.

Scalability

Node.js has an event-based asynchronous architecture and non-blocking I/O, which ultimately contributes to efficient scaling. As a default feature it’s great for smaller applications but not so much for the bigger systems. New developers or even intermediate ones will find it difficult to scale.

Python is synchronous, however, it has additional tools that allow data migrations and data streaming. What works in its favor is how well it scales in code complexity.

Takeaway:

It’s a difficult call when it comes to scalability because both tackle scalability in their unique way, be it through architecture or tools.

Node.js vs Python performance

We want fast apps and we want them now!

Although it’s an unfair comparison, Node.js with its V8 engine and asynchronous architecture is one of the fastest server-side solutions among its peers.

Python is not that far behind in terms of speed. With the latest release and speed optimizations, it has achieved up to 50% speed improvement in some cases.

Takeaway:

Choose Node.js if building a real-time solution
In other cases where high-load is a concern, Python is recommended.

Conclusion

When choosing the right software technology for your project, choosing between Node.js and Python can only add to your confusion as both are exceptional backend technologies. They can both be used to build robust, scalable, and performant software.

We hope that this blog has helped you choose the appropriate backend framework for your project. If you’re still left with some unanswered questions, get in touch with our backend experts here.

What is Node.js and other things you should know about it?

Posted on August 11, 2020October 10, 2024 by galaxy-admin

Whether you have recently started learning Node.js or thinking about using it in your next project, this blog will help you in understanding the main reasons why it has become so popular, and the use cases of Node.js that you can implement for better opportunities.

Node.js is an open source, cross platform Javascript run-time environment for running web applications outside the client’s browser.

That fits in a basic scenario while creating a web application, like this —

The usage of Node.js is not only limited to building web applications, but also for implementing various kinds of services.

Microservices
Developing API
Backends and servers
Scripting and automation
Frontends

The ethos of Node.js is that it uses an asynchronous, event-driven, and non-blocking I/O model. This creates lightweight and efficient real-time applications that run across distributed devices – perfect for data intensive applications.

I know you didn’t come here after escaping the never-ending research loop only to get stuck again with event-driven, asynchronous, and other jargon.

Let’s get to the basics to understand how these terms are solving age old problems — and also are the main reason why Node.js is heavily used among programmers and companies today.

Here’s where Node.js shines

Single Threading

Traditional web-serving techniques use each connection (request) to spawn a new thread (the time and resources to execute a small unit of instructions). This takes up system RAM and eventually maxing-out at the amount of RAM available.

Whereas, Node.js environment is carried out by one computer processing thread that runs through a queue of events.

That’s because Node.js is single threaded that executes each event one by one in that queue. And you also don’t have to start a new thread for every new user and make them wait.

Non-blocking I/O model

Image credit: Luminousmen.com

I/O refers to input/output. It can be anything ranging from making an HTTP request to an API, to reading/writing local files.

I/O takes time and hence blocks other functions.

Node.js is non-blocking I/O, which means:

The server will keep attending requests.
The main thread will not be blocked in I/O operations.

You can initiate the requests of 2 users in parallel without waiting for the response to the request for the first user. This non-blocking I/O eliminates the need for multi-threading since the server can handle multiple requests at the same time- making the whole process fast and scalable.

Asynchronous request handling

An app database can be crashed with a huge data load.

Receiving a high amount of concurrent data can make the database congested and result in the crash of the application. Also, it becomes expensive to queue data and maintains concurrency because of the huge data load.

The asynchronous nature of Node.js helps in handling huge data load.

Asynchronous processing allows requests to be processed without blocking the thread. This helps Node.js make the most of single threading, resulting in short response time.

Due to its single-threaded, non-blocking, asynchronous nature, Node.js is a popular choice for video conferences, chats, online gaming, or any solution that requires constantly updated data.

And that’s what leads to our next section of existing use cases of Node.js.

Popular use case opportunities in Node.js

Node.js stands out for its speed, intensive data exchange, application scalability, etc. and that is why it has been used by NASA, Netflix, Paypal and other companies.

Below are the examples of when Node.js can and should be used:

1. Chats/Chatbots:

The chat application is a popular example of Node.js. It helps in creating a data-intensive (but low processing/computation), high traffic, lightweight application that runs across distributed devices.

2. Microservices:

When building and deploying microservices solutions, Node.js is the technology of choice. Companies are using two frameworks for microservice architecture. The restify is used by npm and Netflix, while the Express framework lists Uber and IBM among its users.

Whereas, Walmart’s shift to microservices architecture with Node.js resulted in saving up to 40% on hardware and 20-50% on overall operations.

3. Data streaming

Netflix chose Node.js for application scalability and intensive data exchange.

Node.js helps in processing files while they’re still being uploaded, as the data comes in through a stream and we can process it in an online fashion. This could be done for real-time video or audio encoding and proxying between different data sources.

4. Real time data

There is a need to plan out extra resources to execute all the operations without failing to meet any service-level agreements if your web app is running live 24 x 7.

Node.js is a good fit for building real-time web apps by using push technology over web sockets (a two-way communication between the clients and servers).

Some applications function within a time frame that the users recognize as current and immediate. For example, collaborative web apps (Trello, Google Docs), live chat, instant messaging, and online gaming are real-time apps that benefit from Node.js architecture.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, if your use case does not access any blocking resources nor contain CPU intensive operations, you can exploit the benefits of Node.js and enjoy scalable and fast network applications.

If you want to enter into the real-time web or create a data intensive application with Node.js, Contact us.