Full-Stack Software EngineerIntermediate8 modules~4.0 hours hands-on3 learning modes
Web Architecture & Core APIs
Understand the lifecycle of an HTTP request and build predictable REST and GraphQL APIs with Node.js and Express.
// What you'll be able to do- From packets to DNS resolution
- Methods, headers, and status codes
- Building predictable interfaces
- The request pipeline in Node.js
8 modules, built to run
Every module ships runnable code. Expand any one to see what's inside.
00IntroductionWhat problem this course solves30 min
Questions this module answers
- What should you know about why web architecture knowledge matters for every backend engineer?
- How do you choose the learning path that fits your goals?
Start moduleFree preview
01How the Internet WorksFrom packets to DNS resolution30 min
Questions this module answers
- How do you explain how packets travel from client to server across the internet?
- What distinguishes tCP from UDP and know when each is used?
02HTTP - The Language of the WebMethods, headers, and status codes30 min
Questions this module answers
- How do you map HTTP methods to their correct semantic meanings and idempotency properties?
- How do you select the right status code for every API response scenario?
03REST API DesignBuilding predictable interfaces30 min
Questions this module answers
- How do you design resource-based URL structures following REST conventions?
- How do you select the correct HTTP status code for every API response scenario?
04Middleware & ExpressThe request pipeline in Node.js30 min
Questions this module answers
- How do you trace a request through an Express middleware chain and identify where each stage fires?
- How do you write authentication middleware that verifies JWT tokens?
05GraphQL & REST TradeoffsChoosing the right API style30 min
Questions this module answers
- How do you explain over-fetching and under-fetching and why GraphQL solves them?
- How do you read a GraphQL schema and write a basic query?
06Scale & SecurityLoad balancers, CDNs, and API protection30 min
Questions this module answers
- How do you explain the load balancing algorithms and when each is appropriate?
- How do you describe how a CDN reduces latency and what it can and cannot cache?
07Pattern SynthesisPutting web architecture decisions together30 min
Questions this module answers
- How do you apply a decision framework to choose the right API and architecture pattern for a given scenario?
- How do you walk through a complete system design problem using patterns from the course?
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