Data is an integral part of any web application. In the previous lessons, we simulated the process of saving data to databases by logging them to the console instead. But that was only a temporary solution, and in order to create a functional web application, we have to discuss how to use Next.js with a database.
In the JavaScript chapter, we introduced the concept of an ORM, which stands for Object-Relational Mapping. It is a programming technique that allows us to map database tables to objects in any programming language, making database interactions much more intuitive.
Of course, you can manage the database interactions manually, but it is generally recommended to use an ORM framework instead, because these frameworks offer:
- Simplified Database Interaction: ORM frameworks can greatly simplify complex database operations with their built-in querying methods such as
create(),update(), and more. - Cross-Database Compatibility: Most ORM frameworks offer compatibility for multiple databases such as SQLite, MySQL, PostgreSQl, and more. They offer a consistent API for different databases, allowing you to switch between them without altering the codebase.
- Scalability: ORMs are great for projects that might grow more complex in the future, as they abstract many low-level details and provide features like schema migrations and type safety.
- Consistent Practices: This is especially helpful when you work under a team setting, as ORMs enforces consistent practices and reduces the need for raw SQL knowledge.
Setting up Prisma
In this lesson, we are still going to use Prisma.js as an example, as it is the most popular choice among Next.js developers.
First, install Prisma with the following command:
1npm install prisma --save-devAfter the package is installed, then use the following npx command to initialize Prisma:
1npx prisma init