Building Robust Backend APIs with Next.js

Next.js isn’t just for frontend rendering — it also enables powerful backend APIs through API routes. These serverless functions deploy effortlessly, making them ideal for backend tasks without managing a server.

📌 Advantages of Next.js APIs

• Serverless Deployment: Scales automatically on platforms like Vercel.
• No Separate Backend Server Required: APIs reside inside the Next.js project.
• Easy Integration with Frontend Logic: Share utilities, types, and configurations.
• Supports Any Node.js Package: Full backend power within your Next.js app.

🔧 Example: Creating a REST API Route

Create a file pages/api/hello.ts:

import type { NextApiRequest, NextApiResponse } from 'next';

export default function handler(req: NextApiRequest, res: NextApiResponse) {
  res.status(200).json({ message: 'Hello from Next.js API!' });
}

Access it at /api/hello in your browser.

🚀 Conclusion

Next.js API routes are ideal for lightweight backend services, webhook integrations, and rapid prototypes, all while leveraging the same Next.js codebase.