Node.js is an open-source, cross-platform, backend JavaScript runtime environment that runs on the V8 engine and executes JavaScript code outside a web browser. Node.js lets developers use JavaScript to write command-line tools and server-side scripting --- running scripts server-side to produce dynamic web page content before the page is sent to the user's web browser. Consequently, Node.js represents a "JavaScript everywhere" paradigm, unifying web application development around a single programming language, rather than different languages for server-side and client-side scripts.

The top 5 free resources to learn Node.js are as follows:

1. Node Tuts

An all-in-one website to learn everything Node.js. It contains tutorials for both beginners and veterans. The website provides videos, materials, and example problems to solve. The material covers the programming part and some core concepts commonly used in programming, Avoiding errors, design patterns for node.js, etc.

More info

‍2. Node.js Tutorial for Beginners

A complete YouTube playlist for Node.js beginners. It is a very well-structured playlist covering everything from the beginning. Viewers must have basic knowledge of JavaScript before starting to watch the tutorial. Many subjects, including JSON data passing, express.js, Embedded JavaScript, and usage of states, are also covered.

More info

‍3. Build a Node.js Project from scratch

There is a whole ecosystem of tools you need to know about in the' full-stack JavaScript' world. Besides Node, there is Express, NPM, Bower, Grunt, Gulp, etc. This book's goal is not to deep dive into any specific subject but to provide the overview of learning needed to build a good foundation.

This article is perfect to learn further about the capabilities of Node.js and full-stack development. It also serves as an excellent reference for developers to clear their doubts about Node.js concepts.

More info

‍4. Node.js Basics

YouTube Playlist for Node.js basics. This video series also includes integration with MongoDB, basic CRUD operations, and Express.js. Overall an excellent choice for beginner-level backend developers to boost their careers.

More info

‍5. NodeSchool

An online platform that helps developers to learn everything Node.js. Every relevant topic regarding node.js is covered. It includes frontend, backend, hosting, version control, debugging, and full-stack development. Thias platform is for both beginners and advanced developers.

Concepts covered include:

• All popular backend frameworks like Hapi.js, express.js, Koa.js
• Utilities like lodash,three.js, and async
• ES6 generators
• Frontend libraries like react.js
• Version control using GitHub.

More info

6. Node.js Guide

This guide will help you get started Node.js from scratch.

More info

‍

Originally posted at raftlabs.co