JSON Server

JSON Server is a Node.js-based tool that allows developers to quickly set up a fake RESTful API server using JSON data. It is commonly used for testing, prototyping, and front-end development, as it provides a simulated backend server without the need for a real database. With JSON Server, developers can define a simple JSON file that acts as a database and exposes RESTful endpoints for various HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) to interact with the data.

Key features of JSON Server:

1. Fake RESTful API: JSON Server creates a fully functional RESTful API for CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations on the data defined in a JSON file. It supports the standard HTTP methods and URL patterns for working with resources.
2. Minimal Setup: JSON Server is easy to set up and use. Developers can install it via Node Package Manager (npm) and run it with a single command.
3. Data Persistence: While JSON Server is primarily used for testing and prototyping, it does provide basic data persistence. Any changes made to the data during the server session are written back to the JSON file.
4. Custom Routes: Developers can define custom routes and actions to extend the functionality of the server beyond the standard RESTful API.
5. No Database Required: JSON Server does not require a database setup as it uses a simple JSON file to store data, making it convenient for small projects and quick experimentation.

Usage Example:

1. Install JSON Server via npm:

npm install -g json-server

2. Create a JSON file (e.g., db.json) with sample data:

{
  "posts": [
    { "id": 1, "title": "Post 1" },
    { "id": 2, "title": "Post 2" }
  ]
}

3. Start JSON Server with the JSON file:

json-server --watch db.json

After starting the JSON Server, it will create RESTful endpoints for the “posts” resource, allowing you to make HTTP requests like GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE to interact with the data.

Please note that JSON Server is meant for development purposes and not intended for production use. It is useful for quickly mocking API responses, testing front-end code, or simulating backend interactions during development. For production applications, a real server with a proper database backend should be used.