Next.js Architecture

1. Introduction

Next.js is a React framework that enables server-side rendering and static site generation. It provides an intuitive way to build complex web applications with performance in mind.

2. Key Concepts

• Server-Side Rendering (SSR)
• Static Site Generation (SSG)
• API Routes
• Dynamic Routing
• File-based Routing

3. Architecture Overview

The architecture of Next.js revolves around pages and components. Here's a high-level overview:

            graph TD;
                A[User Request] --> B{Next.js};
                B --> C[Server-Side Rendering];
                B --> D[Static Generation];
                B --> E[API Routes];
                C --> F[Rendered Page];
                D --> F;
                E --> F;
        

4. Routing

Next.js uses a file-based routing system. Each file in the pages directory corresponds to a route.

            // pages/index.js
            export default function Home() {
                return 
Welcome to Next.js!
;
            }
            

5. Data Fetching

Next.js supports various methods for data fetching:

• getStaticProps: Fetch data at build time for static generation.
• getServerSideProps: Fetch data on each request for server-side rendering.
• getStaticPaths: Generate dynamic routes based on data at build time.

            // pages/posts/[id].js
            export async function getStaticPaths() {
                // Fetch posts from an API
                const paths = await fetchPosts();
                return { paths, fallback: false };
            }

            export async function getStaticProps({ params }) {
                const post = await fetchPost(params.id);
                return { props: { post } };
            }
            

6. Best Practices

Follow these best practices for optimal Next.js development:

• Utilize getStaticProps for static content.
• Implement getServerSideProps for dynamic data.
• Leverage API Routes for backend functionality.
• Optimize images with the Next.js Image component.
• Use environment variables for configuration.

7. FAQ