Used by businesses of all sizes, Node.js is a runtime environment for server-side JavaScript applications. It’s growing because it’s ideal for quickly building scalable, fast web applications. But, not all hosts are Node.js-friendly.
The Best Node.js Hosting Services
You can run Node.js for free or cheap on a shared server but you’ll be severely restricted; VPS and dedicated servers are better options. Look for hosts that let you integrate Node.js apps with developer tools and APIs easily. Also, check any hosts upgrade policy because Node.js releases new versions periodically and your environment must be updated. Here’s our list of the best hosting for Node.js:
Find What You’re Looking For
The Best Node.js Hosting Services
The Best Node.js Hosting Providers Reviewed
What Is Node.js?
Why Use JavaScript on a Server?
How Did We Pick the Best Hosts for Node.js?
What To Look for in Node.js Hosting
What Is Event-Driven Architecture?
Non-Blocking I/O Operations and Single Threading
Top Features of Node.js 12
Major Features of Node.js
How To Choose a Node.js Hosting Provider
Pros and Cons of Using Node.js
Do Your Homework
How Long Will Node.js Version Support Last?
How to Upgrade Appropriately
Specific Requirements When Using Node.js
Hosting Companies that Prioritize Node.js
Is There Technical Support and Customer Service for Node.js?
Where Can You Learn Node.js?
Alternative Options for Node.js Hosting
Considerations When Choosing a Node.js Alternative
Node.js Hosting Summary
Frequently Asked Questions About Node.js
What is Node.js?
Is Node.js better than PHP?
What are the top Node.js developer tools?
What is non-blocking I/O?
Can I use Node.js with shared hosting?
What is a real-time web application?
Does GoDaddy support Node.js?
Does AWS Support Node.js?
How much does Node.js cost?
Does HostGator support Node.js?
Does cPanel support Node.js?
How do I run a Node.js application?
Who uses Node.js?
Why is Node.js a good choice for real-time web applications?
Can I build a content-management system with Node.js?
What type of database can you use with Node.js?
What is NPM?
What are NPM packages?
What is a runtime environment?
Browse Web Hosting Provider Reviews
The Best Node.js Hosting Providers Reviewed
Bluehost: Best Overall Hosting
Bluehost is a large website host well-known in the industry for its WordPress expertise. It is also popular for its variety of “one-stop-shop” solutions and services, as well as bargain prices.
Bluehost currently powers over 2 million sites worldwide, mainly out of its huge data center in Utah. Also, the company offers almost every website hosting service that you might possibly need, such as advanced hosting like VPS, managed WordPress hosting and dedicated server.
Besides offering a complete range of website hosting services, the company provides SEO services, marketing training, social media marketing, graphic design services, and content creation.
Bluehost also has an advanced and reliable WordPress hosting category called WP Pro. Note that WP Pro is available in 3 tiers. It is an excellent managed WordPress offering that gives your website back end the coveted white-glove treatment and also includes amazing social media, SEO, and email marketing tools. And WP Pro’s 3 plans (Grow, Build, and Scale) all feature unlimited website hosting, domains, monthly data transfers, and storage, which is great.
Pros and Cons of Bluehost Managed Hosting Services
Bluehost is an incredibly reliable hosting provider that has strong customer service, offers uptime, and great value for money. So, if you are looking to host your WordPress website, this is one of the best providers for you.
Pros
- Solid uptime
- Generous storage
- Includes several security features such as unique IPs, SSL, & SiteLock protection
Cons
- No automated daily backup
- Bluehost only offer servers in Linux, Windows hosting is not available
What Customers Are Saying
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A2 Hosting: Best Hosting For Speed
A2 Hosting: in addition to being an all-around solid host, A2 is one of the few providers offering support for Node.js (even with shared hosting plans). A2 emphasizes the developer experience, so you are likely to find that they support whatever it is you need to use for your application. If not, the A2 team encourages you to file a feature request for an addition to its development queue.
A2 Hosting provides Windows and Linux-based web hosting. With plans starting as low as $2.99 per month, you get to build your company’s website without having to worry much about operating costs. Websites hosted by A2 Hosting load moderately fast according to HRANK at 949ms. Their servers are reliable with a 99.9% uptime.
Those who choose A2 Hosting for their hosting needs also get to enjoy some free tools and features that help to build their website. These include:
- Unlimited bandwidth and disk space
- Free domain name registration
- A free website builder
- An SSL certificate
- Free data backups
Pros and Cons of A2 Hosting Managed Hosting Services
Pros
- Good money-back guarantee
- Developers have tried to make it more usable, and are actively investing in getting feedback
- Free website migrations
- Access to A2 site accelerator
Cons
- Turbo servers only available for higher-tier plans
What Customers Are Saying
Customers speak highly of their pricing plans and customer support. One reviewer says, “A2 Hosting is a cost-effective deal for both companies and Small-Medium Businesses,” while another says, “I am very pleased and impressed with the level of support from A2 Hosting — that’s in addition to their excellent documentation.”
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SiteGround: Best Hosting for Customer Support
SiteGround is another great all-around web hosting provider, but support for Node.js is only offered on its dedicated server. This limitation means that SiteGround is not different from any other provider that offers dedicated servers. However, we still had to give a nod to SiteGround due to the fact that their web hosting offerings are competitive and are backed by quality customer service.
SiteGround also excels at customer service and tech support. They are available to help with any issues that develop with your site 24/7. Their reps are very knowledgeable about their systems and resolve most issues promptly.
SiteGround’s hosting services come with a variety of bonuses like a free SSL certificate, email accounts, and CDN. Their plans also offer free website migrations for customers who already have websites hosted by a different provider. Other noteworthy features that come with SiteGround hosting include:
- Integrations with popular apps like Weebly, WordPress, and Drupal
- Reseller and collaboration tools
- Unmetered SSD storage and bandwidth
- 24/7 customer service with Live Chat support system for quick access
Pros and Cons of SiteGround Managed Hosting Services
Pros
- Blazing fast servers
- Fast and secure tech stacks
- Staging environments provided
Cons
- Limited storage space on starter plans
- Requires a 3-year contract for the lowest rates
What Customers Are Saying
SiteGround doesn’t offer much storage compared to other shared web hosting providers. However, it receives nearly universal praise for its customer service, with customers reporting near-instantaneous responses. That response time adds a significant element of peace of mind for users who need some extra help setting up the platform or working through any unexpected issues.
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LiquidWeb: Best Dedicated Hosting
Liquid Web offers high-end, advanced web hosting solutions that support Node.js. Like SiteGround, Liquid Web offers solid options that are backed by top-notch customer service. However, do note that most of the company’s options (both traditional and cloud-based) are managed, so if you are less technically inclined or you want to outsource some (or all) of the management related to your web hosting while still purchasing a VPS plan or dedicated server, Liquid Web might be the best option for you.
The site mentions only PHP4 and PHP5 compatibility and the “Learn More” link is broken, though, so it’s not clear how up-to-date Liquid Web’s commitment is.
The web host specializes in managed services, and it gives guaranteed support response times around the clock, as well as guaranteeing 100% uptime.
Pros and Cons of Liquid Web Hosting
Windows hosting plans are still in the works, so if you’re trying to get started right away, then A2 Hosting may not be an option. But with their impressive uptime, 24/7 customer support, and generous refund policy, they may be worth the wait. In the meantime, you can explore their other hosting options, including dedicated servers and VPS hosting.
Pros
- High-performance plans
- 100% network/power uptime guarantee
- Excellent support team
Cons
- Windows options coming soon
What Customers Are Saying
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What Is Node.js?
Node.js was invented to provide a different way of handling client-server I/O (input/output).
Node.js is an event-driven JavaScript run time environment and development framework built on Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine. The inventor of Node.js discovered that its I/O handling capabilities (or lack of them), and some of its other characteristics, made it ideal for writing an environment capable of asynchronous, event-driven I/O.
Server-Side Applications
Node.js can be used to build server-side web applications, and its architecture allows for massive scalability.
In most conventional web server environments, requests are handled as single, discreet events: a request is made to the server, the server does something, and a response is sent back.
Getting Server Feedback
This makes it difficult to get ongoing feedback, such as a file upload progress bar, or any kind of push notification.
The usual way these things were done was essentially a hack: by sending a series of frequent requests over and over to check on the progress of the process.
Why Use JavaScript on a Server?
JavaScript was originally designed as a scripting language for web browsers. It provides a way to add logic and computation to what is otherwise a document-reading application.
Javascript is a fully-featured programming language and can be used in other contexts as well.
How Did We Pick the Best Hosts for Node.js?
To start, we worked through hosts that support Node.js. We sorted hosting plans, selecting those that offered a wide range of developer tools and technical support.
We prioritized hosts that made it easy to deploy, manage and scale your Node.js apps, integrating with Git and Heroku. We scaled down this list, vetting it against customer reviews.
What To Look for in Node.js Hosting
When selecting the best hosts, we stayed with and chose from a list consisting of more traditional web hosting providers. In addition, to support Node.js, hosts may offer:
- A free domain name
- Use of CDNs to improve website performance
- SSD (solid-state drive)storage
- Free SSL certificates
- Use of GUI control panels (e.g., cPanel) and other add-ons for your website
- Choice of data centers
- Uptime guarantees
- Money-back guarantee
What Is Event-Driven Architecture?
Event driven architecture is a way of orchestrating the way software components interact with each other and their environment.
Non-Event Driven Coding
In a conventional, non-event-driven approach, if you want one action to cause another action, you usually would have to write an explicit connection between those two actions. This had to be done inside the causal agent.
In other words: if I want A to trigger B, I have to add some code to A.
Event-Driven Coding
Event-driven architecture abstracts this to an environment that contains triggers and listeners.
You can add event triggers to any action (even if you do not know yet that it will be meaningful later) and add listeners to components (even if there is nothing yet to trigger them). Listeners wait for triggers and then launch an action.
Event-Driven Coding for UI
Event-driven programming is typically used in user-interface situations: The system listens for events such as mouse-clicks or keystrokes.
JavaScript already had easy support for event-driven architecture because of its in-browser event-listening usage.
Node.js took advantage of this built-in characteristic to create an event-driven development framework for creating applications.
Non-Blocking I/O Operations and Single Threading
In Node.JS, I/O operations do not block other I/O operations, allowing multiple connections to be made simultaneously without disruption.
Communications Operate on a Single Thread
All connections operate in a single thread, so there is no performance lag between multiple concurrent processes.
Concurrent Applications
Because of these characteristics, Node.js is highly useful for highly-concurrent, real-time applications, such as gaming.
Top Features of Node.js 12
In April 2019, the most recent major release of Node.js (version 12) was shipped. Some of the updates and upgrades included in this release include:
- An updated version of the V8 JavaScript engine, offering faster execution of JavaScript code, improved memory management, and extended support for ECMAScript syntax
- Support for private class fields, which restricts where code variables can be accessed
- Improved performance via caching
- Use of an optimized compiler
- Security enhancements
- Diagnostic reports that allow developers to create reports when certain events occur
There’s A Huge Talent Pool of Node.js Developers
The fact that there is a huge talent pool helps you in a couple of ways
Given that there are many talented node.js developers, you can easily find one if you want to outsource the job.
On the other hand, if you plan to do the coding yourself, you’ll find a lot of mpde.js developers who are eager to answer your questions. (Programmers are like that.)
Node.js Is Very Fast
The fact that Node.js is a very fast language is no secret.
Since it is built on Google’s V8 JavaScript engine you know that you can depend on it and that it will only get faster over time.
Node Package Manager Is the Largest Open-source Library
If you want to be an efficient coder, you need to learn to use the code that others have already created.
The Node Package Manager (NPM) is the world’s largest source of open-source libraries. It makes installations a piece of cake.
Coding Language Simplicity
Often complex projects require using several different languages like C, Assembly, and PHP. Node.js is not that way.
With JavaScript/Node.js, you can write an entire application from client to the server to database in one programming language. And that’s a huge help.
Node.js Has Multiple Connection Support
If you are going to be writing a gaming or chat application, Node.js is the language for you.
This is thanks to the event loop and its support for multiple, concurrent connections.
Node.js Has Heavy Data Computation and Processing
Node.js is really fast at handling I/O. Unfortunately, it is designed to do one thing at a time (though the asynchronous, non-blocking nature means that there aren’t many slowdowns).
As a result, it is not very efficient for heavy data computation and processing. Furthermore, Node.js is lagging in terms of data science and other helpful packages.
Major Features of Node.js
Here are the 8 features that stand out to most people.
Plan | Transfer |
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Professionally managed administration | Administrator takes care of basic server administration tasks |
Other programming languages like PHP, Perl or Python | Can be used for creating dynamic websites |
Database (usually MySQL) | Handles data storage |
How To Choose a Node.js Hosting Provider
Node.js is still relatively new, so most web hosts do not support it yet.
On the other hand, it is also very trendy, so there are a number of specialized web hosting providers that are well-optimized for Node.js applications.
Pros and Cons of Using Node.js
Pros of Using Node.js
Here are some reasons to use Node.js:
- Language Simplicity
- Huge Talent Pool
- Speed
- Node Package Manager
- Multiple Connection Support.
Cons of Using Node.js
Node.js is not a “fix-all” development framework. There are certainly some applications where it is not the best option.
Here are some reasons not to use Node.js:
- Heavy data computation and processing
- SQL support
- Incompatibility issues with legacy tools (not backwards compatible)
- API changes frequently
- Immaturity of some tools in the npm registry
- Price (hosting) and requirements may be more expensive
- Node.js does not have SQL support
Do Your Homework
Be sure to compare hosting options in detail before committing to one.
More Than the Usual Features
You want to look past the usual considerations when selecting a web host provider — things such as resource allocation and the inclusion of bonus features.
There are other things you need to keep in mind when selecting the option that is the best for your needs.
Factors to Consider
Here are some of the factors you should consider:
- Which programming languages does the host support
- Node.js, as a more developer-oriented language, ensure that the user-friendliness of your host matches your skillset
- Support for Node.js tends to be offered only on Virtual Private Servers (VPS) plans or dedicated servers which may be a problem with a lower web hosting budget
- Are other alternatives such as PHP more suited to your needs
- Does your host of choice have a good reputation and reliable uptime figures?
With that said, what are some specifics that you should consider when looking for a Node.js hosting plan? Well, we think the following are important:
- Node.js versions supported
- Commitment to Node.js and Availability of APIs / Developer-Oriented Tools
- Technical Support and Customer Service
- Pricing and cost-effectiveness
- Hosting company reputation and reliability.
How Long Will Node.js Version Support Last?
Major releases of Node.js ship every six months, with even-numbered versions shipping in April and odd-numbered versions shipping in October.
Whenever an odd-numbered version ships, the most recent even-numbered version transitions to the status of Long-Term Support (LTS), which means the version gets active support for the next 18 months. Afterward, it will get 12 months of maintenance support.
How to Upgrade Appropriately
Actively supported versions receive non-breaking backports of changes a couple of weeks after the current version receives them, while maintenance releases only include critical fixes and the applicable documentation updates.
What this means is that the version you are using will get some type of support for the next two and a half years or so It is up to you to upgrade your applications appropriately.
When it comes to web hosting, you will need your provider to update its environment as well.
Obviously, this is not a problem if you have purchased a dedicated server (since you have full control over your environment), but for those with VPS or shared hosting plans, it is important to check on the hosts’ upgrade policy before signing on the dotted line.
Specific Requirements When Using Node.js
In addition, to support for Node.js, you will want to see what the host offers in terms of developer tools.
The specifics will vary from user to user, so it is best to take stock of what you need and then find a host that meets your requirements.
Using MySQL Databases and Other Technologies
For example, many hosts offer MySQL databases and SQL Server instances, but what if you are looking for MongoDB so that you can implement a full-stack JavaScript application?
Can you use Redis, a NoSQL data store?
Can you easily integrate with Heroku for things like application build previews, GitHub for version control, or Jenkins for continuous integration?
Does the host offer WebSocket support or offer load balancing?
These are all questions you may want to ask.
Hosting Companies that Prioritize Node.js
Essentially, you must consider whether your host treats Node.js as a first-class citizen or not.
We do not think you should completely disregard a provider if it doesn’t prioritize Node.js, but we do think you should do your research to ensure that support goes further than “we know you can install Node.js and run your app.”
The web host gets bonus points if it has experience integrating Node.js apps with things like Git and Heroku for continuous deployment or with cloud-vendors.
Is There Technical Support and Customer Service for Node.js?
There are a lot of web hosting providers whose software supports Node.js, but they then state explicitly that all Node.js code and related issues are unsupported.
In some cases, this may be okay, especially if you have an in-house technical team. However, if you think you might need assistance in this area, be sure to check the fine print to see if you will get support for issues that pop up as a result of your Node.js use.
Where Can You Learn Node.js?
Perhaps you are interested in Node.js hosting but don’t yet have the skills to tackle Node.js head-on? If so, here are some great places to study Node.js online.
Method: | Best for: |
---|---|
Nodeschool.io | Intermediate Learners |
Rithm School | Beginners |
Colt Steele’s Advanced Web Developer Bootcamp (on Udemy) | Advanced Learners |
Alternative Options for Node.js Hosting
In addition to the more popular web hosting options, we suggest you consider players like Heroku, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, Amazon Web Services and Digital Ocean when purchasing a Node.js hosting package.
There is also Nodejitsu, which is the leading pure-play Node.js hosting provider.
Most of these options are cloud-based providers, so by opting for one of these, you will get all the benefits typically associated with cloud-based hosting: easy scalability, redundancy, and support for failover.
Considerations When Choosing a Node.js Alternative
With the exception of Nodejitsu, such options tend to support multiple languages. If you need a “polyglot” web hosting service, this might be the way to go for you.
The caveats, however, are that these tend to be developer-oriented options and may come with a steep learning curve, as well as a larger hosting bill.
Cloud-based options typically cost more than more traditional hosting options.
Node.js Hosting Summary
Node.js is an event-driven JavaScript runtime environment built on Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine designed for speed and flexibility.
Node.js brings JavaScript to the back-end, allowing the rise of what are called “full-stack JavaScript applications.”
While there are plenty of upsides to using Node.js, it can be challenging to find a web hosting provider that supports full-stack JavaScript applications, especially if you are on a budget.
Regardless, there are certainly options, both traditional and cloud-based, even if you are more limited than if you had chosen, say PHP, instead.
Frequently Asked Questions About Node.js
What is Node.js?
Is Node.js better than PHP?
What are the top Node.js developer tools?
Some of the most commonly used Node.js developer tools include:
- Express.js: A framework for developing web apps
- Keystone.js: A web app framework that’s built on top of Express.js and is similar to a CMS (content management system).
- Electrode.io: A platform for building small-to-large scale React or Node.js applications using a standardized structure, toolset, and best practices.
- Meteor: A framework that facilitates the development of cross-platform apps
- Socket.io: Facilitates event-based, real-time, two-way communication
- PM2: For process management
- Babel: This JavaScript compiler solves browser compatibility problems. Bonus: also works iwth the JSX syntax pioneered by React.
- WebPack: A JavaScript module bundler.
- WebStorm: An IDE (integrated development enviroment) created by JetBrains.
- Passport.js: Autentication middleware
What is non-blocking I/O?
What is a real-time web application?
Does GoDaddy support Node.js?
Does AWS Support Node.js?
How much does Node.js cost?
Does HostGator support Node.js?
Does cPanel support Node.js?
How do I run a Node.js application?
Who uses Node.js?
Why is Node.js a good choice for real-time web applications?
Can I build a content-management system with Node.js?
What type of database can you use with Node.js?
What is NPM?
What are NPM packages?
What is a runtime environment?
Need a great web host? Want to save some time? This shortlist is your best place to begin:
- BluehostStarting at $2.75/mo View Current Deal
- SiteGroundStarting at $3.99/mo View Current Deal
- HostingerStarting at $2.99/mo View Current Deal
- WP EngineStarting at $20/mo View Current Deal
- A2 HostingStarting at $2.99/mo View Current Deal
- DreamHostStarting at $2.95/mo View Current Deal