Frontend Development in Full Stack Java
The frontend is the face of a Full Stack Java application. It determines how users interact with the
system, making usability and responsiveness essential.
1. Role of Frontend in Full Stack
- Collects user input (forms, buttons, interactions).
- Sends requests to the backend REST APIs.
- Displays processed data from the backend.
- Ensures a smooth and responsive user experience.
2. Technology Choices
a) Traditional Options:
- JSP (Java Server Pages): Server-side rendering.
- Thymeleaf: Template engine for Spring MVC.
b) Modern JavaScript Frameworks:
- React.js: Component-based UI library.
- Angular: Full framework with routing, forms, and HTTP modules.
- Vue.js: Lightweight, progressive framework.
3. Communicating with Java Backend
- Uses AJAX/Fetch API or Axios to call REST endpoints.
- JSON is the most common format for data exchange.
Example in React:
useEffect(() => {
fetch('/api/customers')
.then(response => response.json())
.then(data => setCustomers(data));
}, []);
4. Styling & UX
- CSS frameworks: Bootstrap, TailwindCSS, Material UI.
- Responsive design ensures compatibility across devices.
5. Typical Architecture Setup
- Frontend runs on a separate port (React on 3000, Angular on 4200).
- Backend runs on 8080 (Spring Boot).
- API communication via REST endpoints.
6. Example Workflow
- User clicks "Register".
- Frontend validates form → sends POST request to backend.
- Backend stores data in database → responds with success message.
- Frontend displays confirmation message.
7. Best Practices
- Use state management (Redux, Context API, NgRx).
- Follow component-based architecture.
- Handle errors gracefully (alerts, toasts).
- Optimize performance with lazy loading and code splitting.