Proposal: Migrating Backend from Go to Node.js with Complete Authentication Implementation

[Hamza1821]

Proposal: Migrating Backend from Go to Node.js with Complete Authentication Implementation

Dear Maintainers,

I propose migrating the backend of Debate AI from Go to Node.js to enhance seamless integration with the React-based frontend, leverage ecosystem synergy, and simplify development workflows.

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Why Migrate to Node.js?

1. Frontend-Backend Synergy

   • Both React and Node.js use JavaScript, promoting consistency and reducing context-switching for developers.

2. Improved Development Velocity

   • Node.js offers extensive libraries and frameworks like Express, making backend development faster and more efficient.

3. Community and Ecosystem

   • Node.js has a vast ecosystem of modules, active community support, and frequent updates, ensuring long-term sustainability.

4. Scalability

   • With non-blocking, event-driven architecture, Node.js is highly suited for real-time and high-concurrency applications like Debate AI.

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Proposed Scope of Work

1. Backend Migration to Node.js

   • Set up a Node.js backend using Express.js or Nest.js for a robust and scalable server architecture.
   • Port existing backend structure, preserving functionality while simplifying code for maintainability.

2. Authentication Completion

   • Implement email-based authentication using JWT for session management.
   • Add features for secure password storage (e.g., bcrypt) and email verification.
   • Database integration for user storage (e.g., MongoDB, PostgreSQL, or database as per maintainer's choice).

3. API Design Alignment

   • Ensure APIs follow RESTful principles and are aligned with frontend requirements.
   • Document the API endpoints for easy integration and future development.

4. Enhancements for Future Expandability

   • Include middlewares for logging, error handling, and input validation.
   • Set up a scalable folder structure, making the codebase modular and extendable.

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Technical Stack

• Backend Framework: Node.js (Express.js or Nest.js).
• Database: Based on maintainer's choice (e.g., MongoDB, PostgreSQL, MySQL).
• Authentication: JWT-based with bcrypt for password hashing.
• Email Integration: Nodemailer or similar for email verification.
• Development Tools: ESLint, Prettier, and PM2 for code quality and runtime monitoring.

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Benefits of This Migration

• Unified Tech Stack: Simplifies hiring, onboarding, and collaboration for developers.
• Enhanced Developer Experience: Easier debugging and faster iteration due to shared JavaScript ecosystem.
• Future-Proofing: Positions Debate AI for easier feature expansion and maintenance.

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If assigned this issue, I will:

1. Migrate the backend structure to Node.js, ensuring feature parity with the current Go implementation.
2. Complete email-based authentication and database integration with best practices.
3. Collaborate closely with the team to ensure alignment with project goals.

I am confident in delivering a robust, scalable, and developer-friendly backend to support Debate AI's mission.

Looking forward to your feedback!

Best regards,
@Hamza1821

[psidh]

btw, GoLang is more performant than Node.js.