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Introduction to Express.js for https://github.com/benhall/express-demo/
What is Express.js?
Express.js is a minimal and flexible Node.js web application framework that provides a robust set of features for web and mobile applications. It is designed for building web applications and APIs, and it simplifies the process of creating server-side logic. Express.js is not opinionated, allowing developers to choose their own view engine, middleware, and other technologies.
Why is Express.js important?
Express.js is important because it simplifies the process of creating web applications and APIs using Node.js. It provides a robust set of features, such as routing, middleware, and template engines, making it an ideal choice for building both small and large-scale applications. Express.js is also highly flexible and can be easily integrated with various other technologies, making it a popular choice among developers.
Understanding the Significance and Basic Information about Express.js in the Project
The express-demo project is a simple Express.js application. The following sections provide an overview of the Express.js components used in the project.
Project Structure
The project structure includes the following files and directories:
app.js: The main application file where Express.js is initialized and configured.bin/www: The entry point for the application, which starts the server.views: A directory containing HTML templates.public: A directory for serving static files.
Express.js Dependencies
The project’s package.json file lists the following Express.js dependencies:
express: The core Express.js library.cookie-parser: Middleware for parsing cookie headers into a JavaScript object.debug: A debugging utility for logging messages.hbs: Handlebars.js, a popular templating engine.http-errors: A library for creating and managing HTTP errors.morgan: A logging middleware for Express.js.
Initializing Express.js
The app.js file initializes Express.js by requiring the core library and creating a new Express.js application instance. The application is then configured with middleware and routes.
Starting the Express.js Server
The bin/www file is the entry point for the application and starts the Express.js server by requiring the app.js file and calling the app.listen() method.
Using Express.js Templates
The project uses Handlebars.js as the templating engine. The templates are stored in the views directory and are served by Express.js when a corresponding route is accessed.