Next.js and Drupal Integration: A Synergistic Approach for Web Development

Staff Reporter

The article "NextJS with Drupal" authored by Vijay Kumar, a Senior Front-end Developer at Altudo, focuses on Next.js, an open-source framework built on Node.js. This framework provides a seamless development experience for building React applications with crucial production features, including hybrid static and server rendering, TypeScript support, smart bundling, and route pre-fetching. Embraced by major global companies like Netflix, Uber, Starbucks, and Twitch, Next.js has gained prominence, especially in the context of static site development—a prevailing trend in web development.

One standout feature of Next.js is its pre-rendering capabilities, catering to server-side rendering (SSR) and static site generation (SSG). While SSR suits dynamic content, SSG excels in creating rapid-loading static pages, making it particularly beneficial for landing pages. The framework adopts a file-based routing system, automatically converting files in the Pages folder into routes, eliminating the need for additional configuration such as a React router. Additionally, Next.js supports automatic code splitting, contributing to optimized load times. The framework also includes built-in features like image optimization, CSS support, SEO benefits, and a strong focus on enhancing user experience.

The article published on 24th March 2023 delves into a notable application of Next.js within the Drupal context, specifically through Next-Drupal. This integration allows replacing the Drupal front-end with Next.js while preserving essential Drupal editing features. Users can enjoy an instant preview within Drupal, and the solution supports familiar content architecture, gated content, and multisite functionality. Overall, the article underscores the compatibility and synergy between Next.js and Drupal, positioning them as complementary components in the continually evolving web development landscape.