Node.js, an open-source runtime environment for server-side JavaScript, empowers developers to construct scalable, high-performance applications. Leveraging the V8 JavaScript runtime, it enables server-side execution and is acclaimed for its non-blocking, event-driven architecture—ideal for crafting real-time applications and APIs. With a robust ecosystem and npm package manager, Node.js simplifies the integration of diverse modules and libraries, enhancing the efficiency of the development process.