# Node.js language-specific guide


[Node.js](https://nodejs.org/en) is a JavaScript runtime for building web applications. This guide shows you how to containerize a TypeScript Node.js application with a React frontend and PostgreSQL database.

The sample application is a modern full-stack Todo application featuring:

- **Backend**: Express.js with TypeScript, PostgreSQL database, and RESTful API
- **Frontend**: React.js with Vite and Tailwind CSS 4


> **Acknowledgment**
>
> Docker extends its sincere gratitude to [Kristiyan Velkov](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiyan-velkov-763130b3/) for authoring this guide. As a Docker Captain and experienced Full-stack engineer, his expertise in Docker, DevOps, and modern web development has made this resource invaluable for the community, helping developers navigate and optimize their Docker workflows.

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## What will you learn?

In this guide, you will learn how to:

- Containerize and run a Node.js application using Docker.
- Run tests inside a Docker container.
- Set up a development container environment.
- Configure GitHub Actions for CI/CD with Docker.
- Deploy your Dockerized Node.js app to Kubernetes.

To begin, you’ll start by containerizing an existing Node.js application.

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## Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you're familiar with the following:

- Basic understanding of [JavaScript](https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/JavaScript) and [TypeScript](https://www.typescriptlang.org/).
- Basic knowledge of [Node.js](https://nodejs.org/en), [npm](https://docs.npmjs.com/about-npm), and [React](https://react.dev/) for modern web development.
- Understanding of Docker concepts such as images, containers, and Dockerfiles. If you're new to Docker, start with the [Docker basics](/get-started/docker-concepts/the-basics/what-is-a-container/) guide.
- Familiarity with [Express.js](https://expressjs.com/) for backend API development.

Once you've completed the Node.js getting started modules, you’ll be ready to containerize your own Node.js application using the examples and instructions provided in this guide.