Node.js HTTP Module

Introduction to Node.js HTTP Module

The Node.js HTTP module is a powerful tool that allows developers to create HTTP servers and handle client requests. It is part of the Node.js core, meaning you don't need to install any additional packages to use it. This module provides numerous methods and properties that allow you to interact with HTTP requests and responses.

Creating a Basic HTTP Server

The primary method to create a server in Node.js is http.createServer(). This method returns an instance of an HTTP server, which can listen for requests and send responses. Below is a simple example of how to create a basic HTTP server using this method:

Handling Different Routes

A key aspect of building web servers is handling different routes. You can parse the incoming request URL and perform actions based on its path. Here's an example:

Serving HTML Files

Instead of sending plain text, you can serve HTML files to clients. This involves using Node.js file system module to read files and serve them as responses. Here's how you can do it:

Conclusion

In this guide, we've explored the basics of the Node.js HTTP module, including creating a server, handling routes, and serving HTML files. This foundation allows you to build more complex and dynamic web applications. Experiment with different features and explore the official Node.js documentation for more advanced use cases.