In the world of web development, assigning a port is considered a basic yet crucial task. It’s important in defining how the application communicates with the web server, or being able to match the port with a domain name. This straightforward activity becomes the backbone of any network application developed using JavaScript, such as Node.JS.
Just as the right shade, color combination, and silhouette can make or break a look in fashion, correctly assigning a port in your JavaScript code ensures your application is accessible and functional on the web.
//Assigning a port
let port = process.env.PORT || 3000
server.listen(port, function() {
console.log("App is running on port " + port);
});
Contents
Deconstructing the Code
In the first step, we’re introducing a variable ‘port’. This serves much like a wardrobe hanger, holding the “clothes”, in this case, the server information. We’re defining our application port with the syntax ‘process.env.PORT’, or falling back on port 3000 if the former is not defined.
This is analogous to choosing an outfit for an occasion, we opt for attire suitable for the occasion, or select our comfortable go-to outfit if nothing specific is outlined.
JavaScript and Node.JS
JavaScript is a highly versatile language, with the Node.JS environment extending its capabilities to server-side scripting. You can imagine JavaScript as a classic white shirt in fashion, it’s versatile and can be paired with different clothing items (libraries and frameworks in our case). Node.JS acts like a fashion accessory, enhancing the effectiveness and attractiveness of our outfit (web application).
Listening to the Assigned Port
In the second line, the server ‘listens’ to the assigned port. Upon successful port connection, a message is displayed on the console log.
The Listen Method
The ‘server.listen’ function is much like a runway show. Designers display their collection (in our case, we run our app). The show only starts once the guests have arrived (when the port is available). If the show is successful, it is then talked about (this is our console log).
- Given the careful semblance of how vital elements function on and behind the catwalk, understanding the basic yet crucial elements of web development becomes a much simpler task.
- Eventually, just as you get accustomed to the ever-changing trends in fashion, you start getting a hang of the subtleties that ensure smooth functioning of your web application.
With the close blend of fashion and JavaScript, the task of assigning a port becomes a task as easy as picking the perfect outfit. The same sense of satisfaction and accomplishment run through the veins, regardless of whether you are stepping up your fashion game or relentlessly coding to make the application run flawlessly.
