Question 1

How do I use npm packages in Deno?

Accepted Answer

Deno supports npm compatibility via `npm:` specifiers, but not all packages work seamlessly; it's often better to use JSR or check for Deno-specific ports, as some dependencies may require patching.

Question 2

Is Deno production ready for large-scale apps?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but with caveats: Deno is stable and used in production, but its smaller ecosystem and occasional breaking changes mean you might face more integration challenges compared to Node.js for complex systems.

Question 3

Deno vs Node.js: which is better for building APIs?

Accepted Answer

Deno is better if you prioritize security and built-in tooling, as its permission model prevents unauthorized access. Node.js is preferable if you need extensive middleware libraries and a mature ecosystem with fewer setup hurdles.

Question 4

Can I run existing Node.js scripts in Deno?

Accepted Answer

Not directly—Deno uses ES modules and different APIs, so Node.js scripts often require modification, especially for imports and permissions. Tools exist for migration, but it's not a drop-in replacement.

Question 5

How to handle environment variables securely in Deno?

Accepted Answer

Use Deno's built-in `Deno.env` API with the `--allow-env` permission flag, which provides secure access without external packages, but you must explicitly enable it for each variable group.

Question 6

Does Deno support WebAssembly well?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Deno has native WebAssembly support via the Web Standard API, allowing easy integration for performance-critical tasks, though tooling and community resources are still evolving compared to Node.js.

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