Have you ever wondered how massive modern platforms like Netflix, PayPal, and LinkedIn handle millions of users simultaneously without crashing? The secret weapon behind much of the modern web is Node.js.
Traditionally, JavaScript—the language that makes websites interactive—could only run inside a web browser like Chrome or Edge. Node.js changed the game by freeing JavaScript from the browser, allowing it to run directly on your computer. This means you can use it to build backend servers, automate boring computer tasks, or run powerful development tools.
If you are intimidated by coding, don't worry. This guide will take you from zero to running your very first Node.js program on Windows, step-by-step.
Prerequisites
Before we begin, you only need two things:
