A Complete Guide to Next.js Server-Side Rendering Implementation

Implement Next.js server-side rendering to improve your web and nextjs mobile app's performance. Modern web development requires SSR as a crucial element.

It provides numerous advantages in terms of productivity, SEO, and user experience.

This guide focuses on implementing server-side rendering in Next.js, highlighting its benefits, core concepts, and practical implementation steps.

What is Server-Side Rendering (SSR)?

Server-side rendering refers to rendering a web application on the server instead of the client. In reaction to a user’s request for a page, the server handles the request, creates the HTML content, and then sends it to the client. 

This approach contrasts with client-side rendering, where the browser dynamically downloads a minimal HTML page and JavaScript to render the content.

Why Use Server-Side Rendering?

Improved SEO: Search engines can easily crawl server-rendered pages, making them more indexable than client-rendered pages. This is particularly important for businesses relying on organic search traffic.

Faster Initial Load: Users receive a fully rendered page on the first request, leading to quicker perceived load times. This is crucial for retaining users and reducing bounce rates.

Improved  Performance: SSR can reduce the overall JavaScript bundle size delivered to the client as the server handles rendering. This leads to improved performance on slower devices and networks.

Key Concepts of Next.js Server-Side Rendering

Next.js provides several functions and concepts to facilitate server-side rendering:

1. getServerSideProps

This function lets you obtain data on the server before the page is rendered. It runs on each request, making it ideal for dynamic content that changes frequently.

2. Dynamic Routing

Next.js supports dynamic routing, enabling the creation of pages based on URL parameters. This is particularly useful for building applications with user-generated content or e-commerce platforms.

3. Middleware

Next.js middleware allows you to run code before a request is completed. This can be used for tasks like authentication checks or redirects.

4. API Routes

Next.js provides API routes to create serverless functions. This can be beneficial for handling server-side logic without needing a separate backend.

Implementing Server-Side Rendering in Next.js

Step 1: Set Up Your Next.js Project

Firstly, create a new Next.js application:

Step 2: Create a Page with SSR

Make a new file under the pages directory (e.g., pages/posts/[id].js) and implement the SSR logic using getServerSideProps.

Step 3: Fetching Data

Utilize getServerSideProps to fetch data from an external API or database. This function runs on the server for every request to that page.

Step 4: Testing Your Implementation

Start your Next.js application and navigate to the server-rendered page. You should see the fetched data displayed immediately.

Step 5: Deploy Your Application

Once you’re satisfied with the implementation, deploy your Next.js application to a hosting provider like Vercel, which optimally supports Next.js features.

Benefits of Using Next.js for SSR

1. SEO-Friendly: As previously mentioned, server-side rendering significantly enhances your SEO capabilities.

2. Scalability: Next.js can easily scale your application, enabling you to handle increased traffic without a hitch.

3. Rich Ecosystem: With Next.js, you can easily integrate headless CMS solutions, allowing for flexible content management.

Conclusion

Implementing server-side rendering in Next.js offers a powerful way to create high-performance, SEO-friendly web applications. 

Whether you're considering using Next.js for a new project, looking to optimize an existing application, or planning to hire Next.js developers, its flexibility and performance make it an excellent choice.

If you want to harness Next.js's full potential, consider partnering with Saffron Tech. Our  Next.js services can help you implement SSR and other advanced features, ensuring your application stands out in the competitive digital landscape.