The MEAN stack is a popular set of tools used to build web applications. It is a short form for Angular, Node.js, MongoDB, and Express.js. Each part plays a crucial role in creating an app. In this blog post, we’ll explain how the MEAN stack works, breaking down each part and showing how they work together.
What is the MEAN Stack?
Before we dive into how it works, let’s quickly look at what each part of the MEAN stack does:
- MongoDB: A database that stores data in a format similar to JSON. It’s flexible, meaning you don’t have to stick to a strict structure for your data.
- Express.js: A framework used with Node.js that helps manage the server and routes (the paths your app follows).
- Angular: A front-end framework created by Google. It helps build dynamic, single-page websites that feel fast and responsive.
- Node.js: A platform that lets you run JavaScript on the server side, allowing you to build scalable, high-performance applications.
How Does MEAN Stack Work Together?
Now that you know what each part does, let’s see how they work together in a MEAN stack application.
1. Client-Side (Angular)
The process starts on the client side with Angular. Angular handles everything related to how the app looks and works for the user. It creates the web pages and manages user interactions, like clicking buttons or submitting forms.
When a user interacts with the app, Angular sends a request to the server. This request asks the server for data or to perform an action.
2. Server-Side (Node.js and Express.js)
When Angular sends the request, it’s handled by the server, where Node.js and Express.js come in.
- Node.js: The request first goes to the Node.js server. Node.js handles requests quickly and can deal with many requests at once without slowing down.
- Express.js: After reaching Node.js, the request is passed to Express.js. Express.js processes the request, decides what needs to be done, and connects with the database if needed.
For example, if the app needs data from the database, Express.js will request it from MongoDB.
3. Database (MongoDB)
MongoDB is where all the app’s data is stored. It’s a flexible database that keeps data in a format similar to JSON, making it easy to work with in a JavaScript-based app.
When Express.js needs data, it asks MongoDB for it. MongoDB finds the data and sends it back to Express.js.
For example, if a user asks for a list of items, MongoDB will find that list and send it back to the server.
4. Sending Data Back to the User
After MongoDB sends the data back to Express.js, it’s passed to Angular. Angular then uses this data to update what the user sees on the screen.
For example, if the user requested a list of products, Angular will take the data and display the products on the webpage.
Why Use the MEAN Stack?
There are several reasons why developers choose the MEAN stack:
- JavaScript Everywhere: With the MEAN stack, you can use JavaScript for both the front end and back end, making the development process simpler.
- Scalability: MongoDB and Node.js make it easy to build apps that can grow as your user base expands.
- Open Source: All the tools in the MEAN stack are free to use, and there are many online communities that support them.
- Fast Development: The MEAN stack allows developers to quickly build and launch apps, making it great for startups and projects with tight deadlines.
Conclusion
The MEAN stack is a powerful combination of tools that work well together to build web applications. Using MongoDB for storing data, Express.js and Node.js for managing the server, and Angular for creating the user interface, developers can build efficient and scalable applications.
Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced developer, understanding how the MEAN stack works will help you build better web applications.
