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Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:
  • Modernize Express.js APIs to work seamlessly with Next.js applications
  • Implement Next.js API routes and server actions for data fetching
  • Integrate with SQL Server databases using modern connection patterns
  • Implement JWT-based authentication and authorization systems
  • Handle file uploads and processing in Next.js applications
  • Create efficient data fetching strategies with caching and optimization
Time Estimate: 2-3 weeks (15-20 hours total)

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Module Structure

2.1 API Routes & Server Actions

Duration: 4-5 hours
Learn to create API routes and server actions for modern data fetching patterns.

2.2 Database Integration

Duration: 3-4 hours
Integrate with SQL Server databases and implement efficient connection patterns.

2.3 Authentication & Authorization

Duration: 4-5 hours
Implement JWT-based authentication and role-based access control systems.

2.4 File Handling & Uploads

Duration: 3-4 hours
Handle file uploads, processing, and storage in Next.js applications.

2.5 Data Fetching Optimization

Duration: 2-3 hours
Implement caching strategies and optimize data fetching performance.

2.6 Module 2 Assessment

Duration: 2-3 hours
Test your API integration skills and demonstrate working authentication systems.

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Prerequisites

Before starting this module, ensure you have:
  • Completed Module 1: Next.js Foundation & Project Setup
  • Understanding of RESTful API concepts
  • Basic knowledge of SQL and database operations
  • Familiarity with JWT authentication concepts
  • Access to the VSL-Api codebase
Pro Tip: Keep your database connection strings and API keys secure. Use environment variables for all sensitive configuration data.

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Real-World Context

In this module, you’ll work with the VSL-Api backend system, which provides:

RESTful API Endpoints

Express.js server with comprehensive API endpoints for all business operations

SQL Server Integration

Direct database connectivity with stored procedures and complex queries

Authentication System

JWT-based authentication with role-based access control and session management

File Processing

File upload handling, image processing, and document generation capabilities

External Integrations

WhatsApp messaging, barcode generation, and third-party service integrations

Business Logic

Complex warehouse management operations and transaction processing

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Key Technologies You’ll Work With

Next.js API Routes

Built-in API functionality for server-side logic and data processing

Server Actions

Modern approach to server-side mutations and form handling

SQL Server

Enterprise database with complex schemas and stored procedures

JWT Authentication

Secure token-based authentication with role-based permissions

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Module Outcomes

By the end of this module, you will have:
  • ✅ Created functional API routes for all major operations
  • ✅ Implemented server actions for form handling and mutations
  • ✅ Integrated with SQL Server database using modern patterns
  • ✅ Set up JWT authentication with role-based access control
  • ✅ Implemented file upload and processing functionality
  • ✅ Optimized data fetching with caching strategies

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Assessment Criteria

Your progress will be evaluated based on:

API Implementation

  • Working API routes and server actions - Proper error handling and validation - Database integration and query optimization - Authentication and security implementation

Integration & Testing

  • Frontend-backend integration - API testing and validation - Performance optimization - Documentation and code quality

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Common Challenges & Solutions

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Next Steps

After completing this module, you’ll be ready to move on to Module 3: Advanced Features & Complex Migrations, where you’ll:
  • Migrate complex features like barcode scanning and reporting
  • Implement real-time functionality and state management
  • Optimize performance and handle advanced use cases
  • Integrate third-party services and external APIs
Key Takeaway: This module bridges the gap between frontend and backend, creating a solid foundation for complex feature migration in the next phase.