How do Nginx, PM2, and Node.js work together?
Nginx receives internet traffic on port 80/443, handles SSL and security, and proxies to Node.js on port 3000. PM2 keeps the Node.js process running, restarts on crash, and can run multiple instances (cluster mode). Together they form a production-ready deployment stack.
Verify This Answer
Cross-check this information using these trusted sources:
More FAQs in Nginx Summary and Best Practices Key Takeaways for Node.js Deployment
Nginx serves as a reverse proxy (routes port 80/443 to Node.js on 3000), SSL terminator (handles HTTPS), static file server (React builds), load balancer (multiple Node.js instances), security layer (rate limiting, headers), and performance optimizer (gzip, caching, keep-alive).
Remove the default site, add proxy headers (Host, X-Real-IP, X-Forwarded-For, X-Forwarded-Proto, Upgrade, Connection), add security headers (HSTS, X-Frame-Options, CSP), enable SSL with Let's Encrypt, redirect HTTP to HTTPS, enable gzip, cache static files, and set rate limiting.
Always use reload (sudo systemctl reload nginx) for config changes in production. Reload applies new settings without dropping active connections. Restart stops and starts Nginx, causing a brief downtime. Always test with nginx -t before either.
Still have questions?
Browse all our FAQs or reach out to our support team