Building a REST API with Node.js

Introduction to REST APIs

REST (Representational State Transfer) is an architectural style for designing networked applications. A RESTful API is an interface that two computer systems use to exchange information securely over the internet.

Setting Up the Project

We'll start by setting up a new Node.js project and installing the necessary dependencies.

Creating the Express Server

Express.js is a minimal and flexible Node.js web application framework that provides a robust set of features for web and mobile applications.

Defining Routes

Routes define the endpoints of your API and how they respond to client requests. We'll create routes for CRUD operations.

Middleware

Middleware functions are functions that have access to the request object, response object, and the next middleware function in the application's request-response cycle.

Error Handling

Proper error handling is crucial for a robust API. We'll implement comprehensive error handling strategies.

Best Practices

• Use proper HTTP status codes
• Implement proper error handling
• Use middleware for common functionality
• Validate input data
• Implement proper logging
• Use environment variables for configuration

const express = require('express');
const app = express();
const PORT = process.env.PORT || 3000;

// Middleware
app.use(express.json());
app.use(express.urlencoded({ extended: true }));

// Routes
app.get('/api/users', (req, res) => {
  res.json({ message: 'Get all users' });
});

app.post('/api/users', (req, res) => {
  res.json({ message: 'Create user', data: req.body });
});

app.listen(PORT, () => {
  console.log(`Server running on port ${PORT}`);
});

const errorHandler = (err, req, res, next) => {
  console.error(err.stack);
  
  res.status(err.status || 500).json({
    message: err.message,
    error: process.env.NODE_ENV === 'production' ? {} : err
  });
};

app.use(errorHandler);