Node.js: Cross-Platform JavaScript Runtime Overview

Node.js, short for Node, is an open-source, cross-platform JavaScript runtime environment that allows running JavaScript code outside of browsers. Founded by Ryan Dahl in 2009, Node.js aims to create high-performance web servers and network applications. It is based on Google Chrome's V8 JavaScript engine and runs on Windows, Linux, Unix, and Mac OS X. Node.js features an event-driven, non-blocking I/O model, making it ideal for handling large-scale concurrent connections, perfect for real-time applications like online games, chat apps, and communication services. It uses a modular architecture and npm (Node package manager) for code sharing, enhancing its ecosystem's growth. Beyond server-side development, Node.js is used in toolchains, desktop apps, IoT devices, and more, enabling full-stack JavaScript development to improve efficiency and convenience. Major companies like Netflix, PayPal, and Walmart leverage Node.js for better app performance, simplified development, and faster market response.