API Design with Node.js and Express

RESTful API Design Principles

Building robust APIs requires following established design principles and best practices.

Resource-Based URLs

Design your API endpoints around resources rather than actions:

• GET /api/users - Get all users
• GET /api/users/:id - Get specific user
• POST /api/users - Create new user
• PUT /api/users/:id - Update user
• DELETE /api/users/:id - Delete user

Express.js Best Practices

Key practices for building maintainable Express applications:

1. Use middleware for cross-cutting concerns
2. Implement proper error handling
3. Structure your application with routers
4. Use environment variables for configuration

Security Considerations

Security should be built into your API from the ground up:

• Input validation and sanitization
• Authentication and authorization
• Rate limiting
• CORS configuration