Node.js Runtime Environment Overview

Node.js, also known as Node, is an open-source, cross-platform JavaScript runtime environment. It enables JavaScript code to run outside of web browsers. Founded by Ryan Dahl in 2009, Node.js leverages the V8 JavaScript engine from Google Chrome and supports operating systems like Windows, Linux, Unix, and macOS. Node.js features an event-driven, non-blocking I/O model, making it ideal for handling concurrent connections in real-time applications such as online gaming, chat apps, and communication services. It employs a modular architecture and utilizes npm (Node Package Manager) for code sharing and reuse, significantly enhancing the Node.js ecosystem. Beyond server-side development, Node.js is used in toolchains, desktop applications, and IoT devices. Its capabilities include file system handling, database operations, and network requests, enabling developers to create full-stack applications efficiently in JavaScript. Node.js is adopted by major enterprises like Netflix, PayPal, and Walmart, boosting application performance, simplifying development processes, and responding faster to market demands.