Getting Started with Express
Express.js is the most popular web framework for Node.js, and for good reason. It's minimalist, flexible, and provides a robust set of features for building web and mobile applications.
Project Structure
A well-organized project structure is crucial for maintainability. Separate your routes, controllers, models, and middleware into dedicated folders. Use a layered architecture with clear separation of concerns.
Middleware and Error Handling
Middleware functions are the backbone of Express applications. Use them for authentication, logging, error handling, and request validation. Always implement centralized error handling middleware.
Best Practices
- Use environment variables for configuration
- Implement proper input validation with libraries like Joi or Zod
- Add rate limiting to prevent abuse
- Use helmet.js for security headers