By Lakindu Alwis
This article focuses on the MERN stack, a set of technologies including MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js. Together, these tools enable the development of powerful web applications. We’ll explore each component and understand how they work collectively to create modern, high-performance solutions.
What is the MERN stack?
MERN stack is one of the Powerful and cutting-edge tech stacks that help you to develop web applications. MERN is a combination of MongoDB, Express, React and NodeJS. So, let’s break down,
- MongoDB — Famous Non-relational DBMS that can store data in JSON format. Using Mongo provides scalability and flexibility for handling complex data structures.
- React — A JavaScript library for front-end Development. Using React you can build flexible, interactive, and reusable components.
- Express — Express is a famous Library that is used to develop web applications and APIs. Also, it offers a range of features for handling routing and middleware.
- NodeJS — Literally, NodeJS is JavaScript runtime environment that allows developers to run JavaScript code outside of a web browser.
Why MERN stack
MERN stack is a very popular tech stack globally for many reasons. Here’s why,
- Performance — The non-blocking, event-driven architecture of NodeJS allows MERN for high performance. Also, the scalability of MongoDB, makes MERN suitable for handling large volumes of traffic.
- Single language — Using one single Language you can build Full Stack Web App. That’s one of the best advantages of MERN. Developers use JavaScript, as well as TypeScript. According to my experience, I recommend TypeScript.
- Reusability — MERN allows developers to share components between frontend and backend and that helps developers to reuse code and maintain consistency throughout the application.
- Community Support — As I mentioned above MERN is one of the very famous Full Stack Powerhouses among developers globally. MERN stack has a vibrant and active community of developers who support you with resources, tools, Libraries, and technical support.
Architecture
MVC Architecture
When we are talking about architecting MERN application, we cannot forget MVC. MVC architecture pattern is the one of most famous Architecture patterns for MERN Applications. MVC is Standards for Model-View-Controller, and it is a design pattern traditionally associated with server-rendered web applications.
For more information, you can refer –https://masterlwa.medium.com/the-hidden-magic-of-mvc-architecture-c2054e1569e8
Microservices Architecture
Microservices architecture can be perfectly integrated with the MERN stack to create scalable and modular applications. In this approach, each component of MERN can be encapsulated as a microservice, allowing for independent development, deployment, and scaling.
For more information, you can refer — https://masterlwa.medium.com/unlocking-the-potential-of-scalable-and-resilient-systems-with-microservices-architecture-1a510fccc3e8
MERN or MEAN
Simply, you can turn MERN into MEAN by using Angular without React. But this is the point that we can argue about all day. However, both libraries have their strengths and can be equally powerful tools for front-end development. Angular offers a comprehensive framework with built-in features and React provides a lightweight library with a focus on component-based architecture.
Choosing one of these depends on the requirement of the Software you’re going to build. In my view, Angular is better when it comes to developing enterprise-level applications. It does not mean React is not good. React’s lightweight nature and component-based architecture make it more suitable for smaller and more dynamic applications where flexibility and performance are paramount.
Best Practices
- Project structure
Maintain a clean and organized project(file) structure. That helps you to improve readability and maintainability. For more information, you can refer – https://masterlwa.medium.com/structuring-your-mern-stack-project-best-practices-and-organization-5776861e2c92 - Error Handling
As a developer, you can use robust error-handling mechanisms to handle unexpected errors. Also, do not forget to use try-catch blocks and log errors and implement middleware to catch and handle asynchronous errors. - Use TypeScript
TypeScript, incorporating best practices becomes even more crucial for maintaining code quality and ensuring scalability. For more information, you can refer – https://masterlwa.medium.com/why-mern-developers-love-typescript-e75def6e8dc9 - Documentation
Always maintain good documentation for your code, APIs, and project architecture. Also, do not forget to maintain a README file.
How to progress as a MERN Developer?
As you wrap up this article, let’s discuss how you can continue your journey as a MERN developer.
Practice
Regardless of the technology stack used, developers must maintain consistent practice. Here are a few key points to consider that will help you with your practice.
- Build Real-World Projects
- Participate Hackathons
- Contribute Opensource Projects
- Learn how to work with new frameworks and Libraries.
Continue as a Mobile App developer
As a developer who is familiar with React, you can transition smoothly into mobile app development with React Native.
Continuous Learning
Invest your time in online courses, workshops, and certifications. Also, there are lots of tools, libraries and related technologies.
Explore Advanced Topics
Follow and study topics within the MERN stack, such as server-side rendering, GraphQL, Redux and etc.
Networking and Collaboration
Connect with other developers in the world through meetups, conferences, and online communities to network and share ideas.
As we conclude our shared journey, we hope to have gained inspiration, guidance, and valuable insights. The experience aims to enrich everyone, whether they are beginners taking their first steps or experts honing their skills.
You can visit www.axonect.com to know more about Axonect Product Suite.
