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Getting Started with Node.js: A Beginner’s Guide to Building Your First Server

Learn how to set up a Node.js environment from scratch and create a simple server to kickstart your backend development journey.

Install Node.js and npm

  • Download and install Node.js from the official website (https://nodejs.org/)
  • Verify installation by running node -v and npm -v in your terminal

Set Up Your Project Folder

  • Create a new directory for your project
  • Navigate into the folder using the terminal

Initialize a New Node.js Project

  • Run npm init -y to create a package.json file with default settings

Create Your First Server File

  • Create a file named server.js (or app.js)
  • Import the built-in http module using const http = require('http');

Write Basic Server Code

  • Use http.createServer() to create a server instance
  • Define a callback function to handle incoming requests and send responses
  • Example: respond with “Hello, World!” to every request

Start the Server

  • Use server.listen(port, callback) to start the server on a specified port (e.g., 3000)
  • Log a message to the console confirming the server is running

Test Your Server

  • Open a web browser or use a tool like Postman to visit http://localhost:3000
  • Verify that your “Hello, World!” message appears

Next Steps

  • Learn to handle different routes and HTTP methods (GET, POST, etc.)
  • Explore using frameworks like Express.js for easier server development
  • Connect your server to databases and build APIs
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RS

IT Professional / Full-Stack Developer

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