Node.js Runtime Environment for Cross-Platform JavaScript

Node.js, also known as Node, is an open-source and cross-platform JavaScript runtime environment. It 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 can run on various operating systems including Windows, Linux, Unix, and macOS. One of the key features of Node.js is its event-driven and non-blocking I/O model, making it ideal for handling a large number of concurrent connections, thus excelling in building real-time applications such as online games, chat applications, and real-time communication services. Additionally, Node.js adopts a modular architecture and leverages npm (Node Package Manager) for code sharing and reuse among community members, greatly fostering the development and expansion of the Node.js ecosystem. Node.js is not limited to server-side development. With technological advancements, it is also used for building toolchains, developing desktop applications, IoT devices, etc. Node.js can handle file systems, operate databases, process network requests, enabling developers to write full-stack applications in JavaScript, significantly enhancing development efficiency and convenience. In practice, many large enterprises and organizations have adopted Node.js as the development platform for their web applications, such as Netflix, PayPal, and Walmart. They leverage Node.js to enhance application performance, simplify development processes, and respond to market demands more quickly.