File-based routing in Next.js simplifies the organization of web application pages. By adhering to specific file naming conventions in tandem with dedicated folders, developers can seamlessly structure their Next.js projects.
Mechanism
JavaScript or Markdown files under specific directories signal Next.js to configure pages within the application. For instance, navigational links can be established using file directory structure.
Key Directories
- The pages directory serves as the root where the application pages are located.
- Secondary folders, such as pages/blogs, represent sections within the application.
File Formats
- For a standard page, use a .js or .jsx extension, or .ts/.tsx for TypeScript.
- For a blog or documentation-like sections, .mdx (Markdown and React hybrid) can be employed, allowing content to render alongside components.
Benefits and Limitations
Benefits:
- Straightforward Navigation: The project’s structure in the page’s directory mirrors the website’s structure.
- Modularity: Sections are self-contained in separate directories, contributing to a more manageable and structured codebase.
- Isomorphism Support: The presence of both client- and server-side code fosters web applications that run on both the client and server, enhancing SEO and initial load times.
Limitations:
- Limited to Core Directories: Unique configurations might necessitate stepping beyond the capabilities of file-based routing, demanding additional setup.
- Directory Depth Complexity: Managing many deeply nested directories can be challenging, potentially triggering comprehension or performance issues.
Code Example: File-Based Routing
Consider a simple e-commerce website.
Below is the directory structure:
pages/ |__ index.js |__ cart.js |__ products/ |__ index.js |__ [product-id].js
In the above structure, we see:
- pages/index.js: Serves as the landing page.
- pages/cart.js: Represents the shopping cart accessible via yoursite.com/cart.
- pages/products/index.js: Defines the ‘Products’ landing page.
- pages/products/[product-id].js: Corresponds to a product details page, accessible with the product’s unique identifier, for example, yoursite.com/products/123.