A Comprehensive Guide: How to Run a React JS Project in Localhost

Running a React.js project on your localhost may seem daunting if you’re new to it. But fear not! This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring that you can confidently set up and run React.js projects on your localhost.

Getting Started

Before diving into the React world, make sure your system meets certain prerequisites:

1. A Reliable Installer

To ensure a smooth process, you’ll need a robust installer or package manager since you’ll be downloading various software packages. A good option is:

Node Package Manager (NPM): NPM is an excellent package manager for managing JavaScript frameworks. To use it, you’ll need to install Node.js, and NPM comes automatically with it.

2. Install NPM and Node.js

Follow these steps to install NPM and Node.js:

Visit the official Node.js website: Node.js.
Download the latest feature version (not the LTS version).
During the Node.js installation process, ensure that NPM is selected in the custom settings options.

3. Text Editor

You’ll also need a text editor for coding. While you can use any text editor of your choice, we recommend Visual Studio Code (VS Code), which is user-friendly and can be easily downloaded from Visual Studio’s website.

Using Create React App: The NPX Method

Now that your system is ready, let’s create a React app using the NPX method. This method eliminates the need for manual configurations and simplifies the process.

4. Create a New React Application

To create a new React application, use the Create React App command-line tool:

bash

npx create-react-app hello-world

Replace “hello-world” with your desired project name. After executing this command, a new folder with your project name will be created.

5. Navigate to Your Project

To work on your newly created app, navigate to the project folder using the terminal:

bash

cd hello-world

6. Start Your React App

Now, start your React application with the following command:

bash

yarn start

This command will open your default web browser, displaying your app at http://localhost:3000/.

7. Make Changes

To get hands-on experience, follow these steps:

Go back to Visual Studio Code.
In the project explorer, expand the “hello-world” folder.
Open the “src” folder.
Click on “App.js.”
Edit the text to say “Hello World.”
Save the file.

As soon as you save the file, your browser will automatically refresh, showing your updated React application.

Using the NPM Method

Alternatively, you can create a React app using the NPM method, which involves installing the React app globally and then using it to create projects or apps.

8. Install the React App Globally

Install the React app globally using this command:

bash

npm install create-react-app -g

9. Create a New Project

Now that you have the React app installed globally, you can create a new project using this command:

bash

create-react-app my-new-app

Replace “my-new-app” with your preferred project name.

10. Why Use NPX Over NPM?

You might wonder why we recommend the NPX approach over the NPM method. Here’s why:

Simplicity: The NPX approach simplifies the process by not requiring you to install the package globally.
Less Maintenance: With the NPM method, you need to maintain and update the Create React App package constantly.

Conclusion

You now have a solid understanding of how to run a React.js project on your localhost. It’s no longer a daunting task. All you need to do is install the necessary prerequisites, grasp the basic concepts, and follow a few simple commands as outlined in this article. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to run React.js projects on your localhost without any hassle.