JavaScript runtime
Execute JavaScript programs on your computer or server without a browser rendering the page.
Run JavaScript beyond the browser.
Node.js is an open-source JavaScript runtime that lets developers build server-side applications, command-line tools, and other networked software.
TOOL PROFILE
Node.js
JavaScript runtimeNode.js runs JavaScript outside a web browser. It is commonly used for HTTP APIs, command-line tools, background jobs, and build tooling. npm, which is distributed with Node.js, helps manage the external packages a project depends on.
01
What it helps you do
The practical parts of Node.js you are most likely to use.
Server-side applications
Use built-in modules and optional frameworks to create network services, APIs, and backend jobs.
npm packages
Declare project dependencies and scripts in package.json so common tasks can be installed and run consistently.
Tooling and automation
Run build tools, development servers, and command-line utilities that are part of a JavaScript project workflow.
02
A practical way to start
Follow a small workflow to get value from the tool without over-configuring it.
- Install a supported release Use the official Node.js site and check your project documentation for its required or recommended runtime version.
- Create a project Make a project folder and initialize its package configuration so dependencies and useful commands have a home.
- Run a small program Create a JavaScript entry file, run it with Node.js, then add dependencies only when the project needs them.