Node.js Performance Optimization Techniques

Start With Measurement

Before optimizing, measure. Use node --prof, clinic, or 0x to capture CPU and memory profiles. Identify slow endpoints and expensive queries first.

Reduce Event Loop Pressure

• Avoid blocking the event loop with synchronous work.
• Offload CPU-heavy tasks to worker threads.
• Use streaming APIs for large payloads.

Improve Database Efficiency

Use indexes, batch queries, and connection pooling. Add caching for hot data and consider query-level timeouts to protect latency.

Caching Strategy

Layer caching in memory (LRU) and with Redis when needed. Cache at the right level: full responses, fragments, or computed values.

Optimize Payloads

Compress responses, avoid overfetching, and paginate large lists. Smaller payloads mean lower latency and reduced server load.

Conclusion

Performance work is iterative. Profile, fix the top bottleneck, then measure again. Small, targeted improvements compound quickly in production.