Node.js is an open-source run-time environment that lets you execute JavaScript code outside of your browser. It's built on the V8 JavaScript engine created by Chrome and is known for being lightweight and efficient. While most traditional web-serving techniques create a new thread with each connection, which takes up RAM, Node.js is a single-threaded platform that uses non-blocking input and output calls. This lets it shine in supporting tens of thousands of simultaneous connections within the same event loop. Node.js is compatible with a variety of platforms, including macOS, Linux, and Windows. It's not a platform that's well-suited to heavy computation or CPU-intensive operations. Node.js is ideal for building scalable network operations because of its speed and ability to handle many simultaneous connections.
Learning Node.js can help you create dynamic page content and real-time web applications. Unlike sandboxed environments like Java Applets and Flash, this platform is built for performance. It lets you build powerful applications, but it doesn't require you to write complex code. It also works well for building microservices, an architectural style that's gaining traction for its flexibility and agility. Learning Node.js prepares you to build scalable, fully managed serverless architectures, which are popular because they require minimal overhead while providing maximum agility.
Learning Node.js opens multiple career paths, including Node.js developers, back-end developers, full-stack developers, and open-source software engineers. Many people start their careers as front-end developers, moving into the role of senior developer after gaining a few years of experience. In this case, you could become a scrum master, team lead, or architect. You could also branch out into management roles, such as team or line managers, or you could create your own consulting business or startup.
Taking online courses on Coursera gives you the opportunity to learn Node.js and become proficient in using it. You can also explore the server-side of things, full-stack development, and building modern applications. You’ll have a chance to strengthen your skills in publishing a Node.js website or using full-stack web development and building skills in Jquery, front-end framework, SASS, and React.