How to install strapijs

Introduction to Strapi.js

Strapi is a Node.js-based CMS that simplifies backend development. Unlike traditional CMS platforms, Strapi is headless, meaning it focuses solely on the backend API and leaves the frontend to developers. Its benefits include:

1. Customizable content types and APIs.
2. Integration with various databases like MongoDB, PostgreSQL, and MySQL.
3. Support for REST and GraphQL APIs.

Prerequisites for Installing Strapi.js

Before installing Strapi.js, ensure your development environment meets the following requirements:

1. 1. Node.js: Strapi requires Node.js version 16.x or 18.x.
2. 2. npm or yarn: A package manager is needed for installing dependencies.
3. 3. Database: Strapi supports SQLite (default), PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, and MongoDB.
4. CLI Tools: Ensure your terminal or command prompt is set up with basic CLI tools.

Step 1: Install Node.js

If you don’t have Node.js installed:

1. 1. Visit Node.js official website.
2. 2. Download and install the LTS version.
3. 3. Verify installation by running:
4. node -v
5. npm -v

Step 2: Set Up Your Project Directory

1. Create a new directory for your Strapi project:
2. mkdir my-strapi-project
3. cd my-strapi-project

Step 3: Install Strapi.js Using npm or yarn

Strapi offers two installation methods:

1. Quick Start with SQLite (Default)

1. This method is suitable for testing and small-scale projects.
2. Run the following command:
3. npx create-strapi-app@latest my-strapi-project --quickstart
4. Or, if you use Yarn:
5. yarn create strapi-app my-strapi-project --quickstart

This command automatically installs Strapi with SQLite as the default database and starts the development server.

2. Custom Installation

For larger projects or specific database configurations, use the custom installation method:

1. npx create-strapi-app@latest my-strapi-project

You’ll be prompted to choose options like:

1. Database (PostgreSQL, MySQL, MariaDB, etc.).
2. Installation type (npm or yarn).

Follow the prompts to complete the installation.

Step 4: Configure Your Database

If you’re using a custom database:

1. Install the corresponding database driver:

1. PostgreSQL:
2. npm install pg
3. MySQL:
4. npm install mysql
5. MariaDB:
6. npm install mariadb

2. Restart the development server:

1. npm run develop

Step 5: Start the Development Server

Once the installation is complete:

1. 1. Navigate to your project directory:
2. cd my-strapi-project
3. 2. Start the development server:
4. npm run develop
5. 3. Open your browser and go to http://localhost:1337/admin.

Step 6: Create an Admin User

The first time you access the admin panel, you’ll be prompted to create an admin user.

1. 1. Enter your email, password, and username.
2. 2. Click Register to complete the setup.

You’re now ready to use Strapi’s admin panel to create content types, manage APIs, and configure settings.

Step 7: Create Content Types

Strapi allows you to create custom content types with ease:

1. 1. Go to the Content-Types Builder in the admin panel.
2. 2. Click Create a new collection type or single type.
3. 3. Add fields such as text, number, media, or relations.
4. 4. Save and publish the content type.

The API endpoints for your content type are automatically generated.

Step 8: Test API Endpoints

Strapi automatically provides REST and GraphQL endpoints for your content types.

1. 1. Test REST APIs using tools like Postman or cURL.
2. Example endpoint for a collection type articles:
3. GET http://localhost:1337/api/articles
4. 2. Enable GraphQL by installing the GraphQL plugin:
5. npm install @strapi/plugin-graphql
6. 3. Access the GraphQL playground at:
7. http://localhost:1337/graphql

Installing Strapi.js is a straightforward process, whether you’re experimenting with its quick-start setup or customizing it for large-scale applications. With its powerful features, flexibility, and ease of use, Strapi is an excellent choice for IT companies looking to streamline backend development and content management.

By following this guide, you’ll not only master the installation process but also set up a robust foundation for building scalable and efficient APIs. Embrace Strapi to unlock new possibilities in your development projects and deliver exceptional results for your clients.