Overview

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This course introduces the core elements of Node.js development, focusing on its setup and essential tools for building server-side applications. You’ll gain hands-on experience with package management, JavaScript/TypeScript basics, and concurrency, setting a solid foundation for your programming skills. As you progress, you’ll dive deeper into HTTP request handling, streams, and content security practices, which are crucial for developing efficient and secure applications. With these practical skills, you’ll be prepared to tackle more advanced topics with confidence. What sets this course apart is its emphasis on real-world applications, combining foundational theory with practical, industry-relevant techniques. You will work with the most commonly used tools in the Node.js ecosystem to build reliable applications from scratch. This course is designed for those eager to start their journey in backend development, specifically those with some basic knowledge of JavaScript. Familiarity with programming concepts is recommended. This course is part one of a three-course Specialization designed to provide a comprehensive learning pathway in this subject area. While it delivers standalone value and practical skills, learners seeking a more integrated and in-depth progression may benefit from completing the full Specialization.

Syllabus

Getting Ready

This module introduces the fundamentals of Node.js, highlighting its role as a server-side JavaScript runtime and the advantages it offers for web application development. Learners will explore the extensive ecosystem of packages and frameworks available in Node.js and gain an understanding of its core API features.

Working with the Node.js Tools

This module guides learners through the essential tools for Node.js development, including installing Git, managing packages with npm, and handling dependencies. Learners will also explore best practices for maintaining package security and automating tasks with npm scripts. By the end, you'll be equipped to set up and manage a Node.js development environment efficiently.

JavaScript and TypeScript Primer

This module introduces the essential features of JavaScript and TypeScript, focusing on their syntax, type systems, and core programming constructs. Learners will explore topics such as conditional statements, functions as arguments, array enumeration, and class definitions, gaining practical skills for web app development. By the end, you'll be able to confidently use foundational JavaScript and TypeScript features in your own projects.

Understanding Node.js Concurrency

This module explores how Node.js handles concurrency using its single-threaded event loop, asynchronous APIs, and worker threads. Learners will examine the differences between callbacks and promises, and discover strategies for managing blocking operations in server-side JavaScript. By the end, you'll understand how to write efficient, non-blocking Node.js code for scalable web applications.

Handling HTTP Requests

This module introduces the fundamentals of handling HTTP and HTTPS requests in Node.js, including server configuration, URL parsing, and request detection. Learners will explore how to enhance server functionality using third-party packages and Express framework features. By the end, you'll be able to efficiently manage and respond to client requests in a secure and maintainable way.

Using Node.js Streams

This module introduces the fundamentals of working with streams in Node.js, including reading and writing data, piping between streams, and leveraging enhancements from third-party packages like Express. Learners will gain practical skills for handling HTTP requests and serving static files efficiently in server-side applications.

Using Bundles and Content Security

This module guides learners through integrating client-side development tools like webpack with backend servers, managing request routing, and implementing robust content security policies. Participants will gain practical skills in configuring development environments and protecting applications from malicious content.