What is Next JS? A Guide to Next JS Development Services and How to Start a Next JS Project
The Ultimate Guide to Next.js Development: From Setup to Deployment
In the rapidly evolving world of web development, one framework has risen above the rest to become the standard for building high-performance React applications: Next.js. Whether you are an individual developer or looking to hire a next js development company, understanding the capabilities of this framework is crucial.
In this guide, we will answer common questions like "is next.js frontend or backend", explore server actions next js, and even tackle specific hosting queries like "can cloudways host next js server side rendering".
What is Next.js?
So, what is next js exactly? Next.js is a React framework that enables you to build full-stack web applications. It allows you to build user interfaces (frontend) using React components while also providing server-side features (backend) like API routes and server-side rendering (SSR).
Why Use Next.js?
If you are asking why use next js (or why use next.js), the answer lies in its performance and developer experience.
SEO Optimization: Unlike standard React apps, Next.js renders content on the server.
Performance: Features like next.js image optimization and automatic code splitting ensure lightning-fast load times.
Full-Stack Capabilities: With server actions next js, you can execute backend logic directly from your components without setting up a separate server.
This is why businesses increasingly seek next js development services or a dedicated next js development agency to build their digital products. A professional next.js development company can help scale these solutions effectively.
Getting Started: Setup and Structure
Learning how to start a next js project is incredibly straightforward.
How to Start Next JS Project
To create a new app, simply run the command npx create-next-app@latest. This command sets up the next js project structure automatically. You will be asked if you want to use TypeScript, ESLint, and next js tailwind for styling.
Configuration and Versioning
Once installed, you might wonder how to check next js version. You can find this in your package.json file. If you need to know how to update next js, simply run the update command in your terminal.
The next js config file (next.config.js) allows you to customize advanced behaviors, such as setting up a next js dynamic import or configuring image domains.
Core Features and Best Practices
Layouts and Styling
The App Router introduced a powerful next js layout system. This allows you to create shared UI (like navbars and footers) that persists across page navigations. For styling, integrating next js tailwind is the industry standard.
Forms and Server Actions
Handling a next js form has evolved. With the introduction of server actions, you can handle next js forms submissions on the server without manually creating API endpoints. This simplifies the architecture significantly.
Images and Assets
The next.js image component (<Image />) prevents layout shifts. But what about static assets? A common question is where to put favicon in next js. In the modern App Router, you simply place your next js favicon inside the app/ directory, and Next.js handles the rest automatically.
Troubleshooting Common Errors
What is Hydration Error in Next JS?
If you have worked with Next.js, you have likely encountered this. what is hydration error in next js? This occurs when the HTML rendered on the server does not match the HTML rendered on the client (browser). Common causes include:
Incorrect nesting of HTML tags.
Using random data that differs between server and client.
Advanced Integrations
CMS and E-commerce
Many companies use a next.js cms to manage content. If you are building a blog, you might start with a next js blog template to save time.
PWA and Sitemap
To make your app installable, you can convert it into a next js pwa. Additionally, for SEO, generating a next js sitemap is essential.
Icons
For UI elements, using next js icons via libraries like lucide-react ensures your application remains lightweight.
Deployment: Vercel vs. Cloudways
Once your app is ready, you need to know how to deploy next js app.
How to Deploy Next JS App on Vercel
Vercel is the creator of Next.js, making it the best place to host.
Push your code to GitHub.
Import the repository in Vercel.
Click deploy.
If you are wondering specifically how to deploy next js app on vercel, the platform handles the build settings automatically.
Can Cloudways Host Next JS Server Side Rendering?
Yes, can cloudways host next js server side rendering? Absolutely. You can host Next.js applications using their custom server setup, ensuring you run a Node.js server to keep the SSR process running.
Conclusion
Whether you are a solo developer figuring out how to start next js project or a CTO looking for a next js development company, this framework offers the tools to build fast, scalable, and SEO-friendly web applications.
If you need professional help, consider partnering with a next js development agency that specializes in next js development services. They can navigate complex topics like next js dynamic import, next js project structure, and next js forms to deliver a premium product.
Ready to build? Update your next js config, check your next js version, and start coding today!
