Question 1

How to implement authentication with Iron.Router in Meteor?

Accepted Answer

Use the `onBeforeAction` hook to check for user authentication; for example, call `this.render('login')` if `!Meteor.userId()` and `this.next()` otherwise, as shown in the migration guide. This integrates smoothly with Meteor's accounts system.

Question 2

Iron.Router vs Flow Router for Meteor: which is better?

Accepted Answer

Iron.Router offers full-stack routing with server-side support and deep Meteor integration, while Flow Router is client-only and simpler. Choose Iron.Router for apps needing server routes or RESTful APIs; Flow Router for lightweight client-side navigation.

Question 3

Can Iron.Router handle server-side routes in Meteor?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it supports server-side routing by setting `{where: 'server'}` in route definitions, allowing HTTP method handlers like `.get()` and `.post()` for building RESTful endpoints, as demonstrated in the quick start examples.

Question 4

How to manage data subscriptions with Iron.Router?

Accepted Answer

Use the `waitOn` option to specify subscriptions that must be ready before rendering, or the `subscriptions` option for more control without automatic loading hooks. This leverages Meteor's reactive data system for efficient updates.

Question 5

What are the breaking changes when migrating Iron.Router versions?

Accepted Answer

Key changes include hooks requiring `this.next()` instead of `pause()`, controller methods like `layout()` replacing `setLayout()`, and query parameters accessed via `this.params.query`. The migration guide outlines these updates to avoid runtime errors.

Question 6

How to set up a catchall route in Iron.Router?

Accepted Answer

Define a route with the path `'/(.*)'` using the path-to-regexp syntax, as noted in the migration section. This allows matching all unmatched URLs, useful for fallback pages or error handling.

iron:router

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