Web Standards and Node APIs

Deno aims to bridge the gap between the browser and the backend with a set of web standard APIs that are familiar to web developers. These APIs are designed to be compatible with the web platform, making it easier to write code that can run in both the browser and Deno.

Existing Node.js ecosystem compatibility is provided through a set of Node.js compatible APIs. These APIs are designed to be compatible with Node.js, making it easier to port existing Node.js code to Deno.

Deno also provides its global namespace APIS, to empower developers with low-level capabilities, often essential for system-level tasks.

Web Platform APIs Jump to heading#

If you’ve ever built for the browser, you’re already on familiar ground. Deno supports standard web APIs (like fetch, WebSockets, and more) instead of proprietary alternatives. This means your existing web knowledge can be used in your Deno projects.

For more information about the web platform APIs, see the Web Platform APIs documentation.

Node.js Compatibility and APIs Jump to heading#

Deno’s Node.js compatibility isn’t about replacing Node, it’s about coexistence. Developers can gradually migrate their projects, leveraging Deno’s security features and built in tooling while benefiting from Node.js libraries. Many Node.js libraries are battle-tested and widely used. Deno’s compatibility allows developers to reuse this code seamlessly. No need for a complete rewrite—just import your favorite Node.js modules.

For more information about Node.js compatibility, see the Node.js Compatibility documentation.

Deno Namespace APIs Jump to heading#

The global Deno namespace offers APIs that go beyond web standards. These APIs allow you to interact with system-level tasks such as the environment, file system, network, and more. For more information about the Deno namespace APIs, see the Deno Namespace documentation.