Custom Server Setup in Next.js

1. Introduction

Next.js is primarily known for its powerful features out of the box, such as server-side rendering and static site generation. However, there are scenarios where you might want to set up a custom server to handle specific routing or middleware functionalities. This lesson will guide you through the process of setting up a custom server in Next.js.

2. Prerequisites

• Basic knowledge of Node.js
• Understanding of Next.js fundamentals
• Node.js installed on your machine

3. Setup Steps

1. Create a Next.js application:

   npx create-next-app my-custom-server

2. Install Express.js:

   npm install express

3. Create a custom server file:

   In the root of your project, create a file named server.js.

4. Set up Express in your server.js:

   const express = require('express');
   const next = require('next');
   
   const dev = process.env.NODE_ENV !== 'production';
   const app = next({ dev });
   const handle = app.getRequestHandler();
   
   app.prepare().then(() => {
       const server = express();
   
       server.get('/', (req, res) => {
           return app.render(req, res, '/', req.query);
       });
   
       server.get('*', (req, res) => {
           return handle(req, res);
       });
   
       server.listen(3000, (err) => {
           if (err) throw err;
           console.log('> Ready on http://localhost:3000');
       });
   });

5. Update your package.json scripts:

   "scripts": {
       "dev": "node server.js",
       "build": "next build",
       "start": "NODE_ENV=production node server.js"
   }

6. Run your custom server:

   npm run dev

4. Code Example

const express = require('express');
const next = require('next');

const dev = process.env.NODE_ENV !== 'production';
const app = next({ dev });
const handle = app.getRequestHandler();

app.prepare().then(() => {
    const server = express();

    server.get('/about', (req, res) => {
        return app.render(req, res, '/about', req.query);
    });

    server.get('*', (req, res) => {
        return handle(req, res);
    });

    server.listen(3000, (err) => {
        if (err) throw err;
        console.log('> Ready on http://localhost:3000');
    });
});

5. Best Practices

• Always handle errors gracefully in your custom server.
• Use middleware for tasks such as authentication and logging.
• Keep your server configuration minimal to maintain performance.
• Leverage Next.js API routes for backend functionalities.

6. FAQ