Question 1

How to handle file paths cross-platform in Node.js?

Accepted Answer

Use Node.js's built-in path module for basic operations, and consider libraries like any-path for interoperability between Windows and POSIX paths, as listed in the Filesystem section. This avoids issues with backslashes and forward slashes.

Question 2

What's the best library for cross-platform shell commands in Node.js?

Accepted Answer

Options include cross-spawn for a drop-in replacement of child_process.spawn() and shelljs for Unix-like commands on Windows, both detailed in the Shell category. Choose based on whether you need low-level control or high-level abstractions.

Question 3

Cross-spawn vs execa: which one should I use?

Accepted Answer

Cross-spawn focuses solely on fixing child_process.spawn() inconsistencies, while execa offers a promise-based API with enhanced error handling and cross-platform command execution. The README lists both, so pick based on your need for simplicity or advanced features.

Question 4

How to set up CI for Node.js on both Windows and Linux?

Accepted Answer

Refer to the Continuous Integration section for services like AppVeyor (Windows-focused) and GitHub Actions (multi-platform), which provide free tiers for open-source projects. These tools help test code across different operating systems automatically.

Question 5

Dealing with Windows registry in a Node.js app?

Accepted Answer

Use libraries like node-winreg or rage-edit from the Windows registry section, which allow reading and modifying registry keys. However, these are Windows-specific and may require elevated privileges, so plan for cross-platform fallbacks.

Question 6

Common pitfalls when writing cross-platform Node.js code?

Accepted Answer

Check the Known Issues section for problems like Unicode display in cmd.exe and inconsistent exec() behavior between shells. The list links to guides and tools, such as the cross-platform Node.js guide, to mitigate these issues.

Cross-Platform

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