Difference between a module and a package in Node.js?

Modules are libraries for Node.js. See the below excerpt from the API:

Node.js has a simple module loading system. In Node.js, files and modules
are in one-to-one correspondence.

Examples of modules:

  • Circle.js
  • Rectangle.js
  • Square.js

A package is one or more modules (libraries) grouped (or packaged) together. These are commonly used by other packages or a project of your own. Node.js uses a package manager, where you can find and install thousands of packages.

Example of a package:

Shapes             <- Package name
  - Circle.js      <-
  - Rectangle.js   <- Modules that belong to the Shapes package
  - Square.js      <-

Essentially, you could install the package, Shapes, and have access to the Circle, Rectangle, and Square modules.

Leave a Comment