How to Build a Todo App with User Authentication Using Passport and Express

Sep 7, 2023 | Programming

Welcome to your go-to guide for building a robust Todo application that includes user authentication using the powerful duo of Passport.js and Express.js. This tutorial takes you step-by-step through the setup, allowing you to kickstart your own web applications from this foundation.

Quick Start

To get started, you’ll first need to clone the repository and install the necessary dependencies. Here’s how you can do it:

bash
$ git clone https://github.com/passport/todos-express-password.git
$ cd todos-express-password
$ npm install

Once that’s complete, start the server by running:

bash
$ npm start

Finally, navigate to http://localhost:3000 in your web browser to see your app in action!

Tutorial

For a more detailed approach, follow along with the step-by-step Username and Password Tutorial to learn how this app operates under the hood.

Overview

This application effectively demonstrates building a todo app that requires users to sign in utilizing Express.js, Passport.js, and the passport-local strategy. Let’s break down what happens when you use this app.

Understanding the Logic: An Analogy

Think of your todo app like a gated community. The entrance (login page) requires a keycard (username and password) to gain access. When a visitor (user) walks up to the gate, they present their keycard to the security guard (server). If the guard verifies that the keycard is valid (authentication), the gates swing open, allowing the visitor to enter the community (application). Now within, the visitor can stroll around, check out their properties (todo items), add new ones, or make changes to existing ones (edit todo items).

Each time the visitor moves around in the community, the guard checks to ensure they still have the keycard, and only then do they continue accessing different areas (making requests). The community keeps a central record of all visitors and their activities (database).

Next Steps

Once you’ve built this foundational app, consider enhancing its capabilities by exploring the following:

Troubleshooting

Should you encounter any issues along the way, consider the following troubleshooting tips:

  • Ensure that your node and npm versions are up to date. If you experience installation errors, this can often be the culprit.
  • Check your terminal for any error messages during server startup; they usually provide hints on what went wrong.
  • If the application doesn’t load in the browser, verify that the server is running properly and that you’re navigating to the correct URL.

For more insights, updates, or to collaborate on AI development projects, stay connected with fxis.ai.

At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations.

License

This project is licensed under the Unlicense.

Credit

This application was thoughtfully crafted by Jared Hanson.

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