Host a Node.js application
Node.js APIs and server-rendered sites need a supported runtime and a persistent application service. Uploading source files to a web folder does not start the application.
Before you begin
Check the supported Node.js version, application entry point, start command, environment variables and whether your APNCloud plan permits persistent processes. A visible application-server icon is not proof that every framework is supported.
Steps
- For shared hosting, ask support to confirm the currently maintained runtime, resource limits, assigned port, startup command and restart controls. Use a VPS if these are unavailable.
- Deploy a reviewed release and use the project lockfile. Install dependencies and run the project’s production build. Keep build dependencies until compilation finishes.
- Store secrets outside the public directory and outside version control. Set production mode through the supported runtime configuration.
- Start the production server through the supported process manager. On a VPS, use a dedicated unprivileged service account and automatic restart.
- Bind to the address and port required by the hosting runtime.
- Check health, errors, login, file uploads and application restart after a planned reboot.
If something goes wrong
Do not use a development server or a terminal session as the production supervisor. If a legacy application server is shown in the panel, confirm its maintenance status with support before adopting it for a new public app.
Related articles
Last reviewed
2026-10-28