Node.js

For execution of Java Script code

Functionality

Node.js is an open-source, server-side runtime environment that allows developers to run JavaScript outside of a web browser. Built on Chrome's V8 JavaScript engine, it enables the execution of JavaScript code on the server to build scalable, high-performance applications, particularly for web servers, APIs, and real-time applications like chat or streaming services.

Key features:

  • Asynchronous and Event-Driven: Node.js handles multiple tasks concurrently using non-blocking I/O operations, making it efficient for tasks like file system operations or network requests.
  • Single-Threaded: It uses a single-threaded event loop to manage operations, which avoids the overhead of multi-threading while still supporting high concurrency.
  • Cross-Platform: Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and more.
  • NPM (Node Package Manager): Comes with a vast ecosystem of libraries and modules, allowing developers to easily integrate third-party tools.
  • Use Cases: Commonly used for building RESTful APIs, microservices, real-time applications (e.g., chat apps), and full-stack development with frameworks like Express.js.

Tips for using this tool at Kent

  • Available to use on Kent student and staff devices from the Software Center app.
  • Available to install on a personal device from the Node.js website

Help & how to get started

To get started install on a Kent device or download from https://nodejs.org/en/download

For help go to https://nodejs.org/docs/latest/api/

Cost

Free / Open Source

Terms of use, copyright and licensing

Freeware, available to all

Data Privacy

The University of Kent uses Google Analytics to track how our Software Finder tool is being used. We do not share this data with any third parties.

While we recommend various software tools that may be helpful for both students and staff, it's important for individuals to review the Terms and Conditions of any software they choose to install, especially regarding how it may affect their privacy and personal data.

Please note, the University of Kent is not responsible for the data privacy practices of any third-party software. It is the user's responsibility to understand the privacy policies of the software they use.