Node.js Runtime Environment Overview and Features

Node.js, created by Ryan Dahl in 2009, is an open-source, cross-platform JavaScript runtime environment. It leverages Google Chrome's V8 JavaScript engine and supports Windows, Linux, Unix, and Mac OS X. Node.js is known for its event-driven, non-blocking I/O model, making it ideal for high-performance web servers and real-time applications such as online gaming and chat services. It features a modular architecture with npm (Node Package Manager) facilitating code sharing and reuse among developers. Beyond server-side development, Node.js is also used for building tools, desktop applications, and IoT devices, enabling full-stack JavaScript development for increased efficiency and convenience. Major companies like Netflix, PayPal, and Walmart utilize Node.js to enhance application performance and streamline development processes.