Why is Node.js loved by popular companies like Netflix, PayPal or Uber?

Tech and Tools   |   
Published February 4, 2021   |   

The Node.js is a server-side runtime environment based on JavaScript that allows developers to use the same solution on frontend and backend. Because of the simplicity of use, dedicated community and regular premieres of countless add-ons the most popular global businesses adopted Node.js into their products. In this article, we’ll look at the reasons why Node js development services are embraced by the big players.

Scalable systems

Node.js is lightweight and makes it easy to scale applications by deploying instances to different servers or using cluster built-in module that forks processes to all the CPU cores.

Open-source repository

Instead of solving the same problems  over and over again, you can use one of the countless modules that are ready-made and ready to go.

API

Almost all web apps require backend communication with databases and/or external services. Node.js’ community is so big and busy that when you need a library to create REST or GraphQL API, it’s very possible that that solution is already in place.

Microservices-friendly

Microservices are becoming a very popular approach in app development and Node.js has it all to support them.

Streaming apps

Users stream content every day – mostly music and videos. Node.js has a built-in stream module that allows you to move lots and lots of data in portions. That means no temporary storages or cache data in your app memory.

Real-time apps

Node.js handles a lot of I/O operations which opens the door for real-life apps. Be it messengers, chats, food tracking, taxi tracking, collaboration tools, etc.

Single programming

Node.js can be used on both backend and frontend. So there’s no need to hire two different specialists.

Reusable code

Parts of the code can be easily reused between different components or between backend and frontend (as mentioned before).

Time to market

If you have a great idea for an app but you need to test the waters first, you can build a decent MVP very quickly. That means more money and time saved!

Command Line Tools

There are countless NPM packages for you to create easy but advanced command-line tools according to your app’s requirements.

Who uses Node.js in their applications?

The list is quite impressive and includes:

  • Streaming services – Netflix, Coursera.
  • Social media – LinkedIn, Twitter, Medium, Tumblr, Pinterest.
  • Online shopping –  Groupon, eBay, Aliexpress, Home Depot, Target, Walmart.
  • Real-time apps – Uber, Airbnb.
  • Payments – PayPal, Mastercard.
  • Collaboration – Trello, Wikipedia, Change.org.
  • Media – Wall Street Journal, BBC, The New Yorker.
  • Tech – IBM, GitHub, Mozilla.
  • Other – Sony, Siemens, BMW.

If it works for the biggest players, it will work for your software product too. Three cheers for Node.js!