The Rise of Server Components
Published on June 28, 2024
What are Server Components?
React Server Components (RSCs) are a new type of component that runs exclusively on the server. They are zero-bundle-size components, meaning their code is never sent to the client.
#Key Benefits
1. **Zero Bundle Size**: Reduces the amount of JavaScript sent to the client, improving performance.
2. **Direct Backend Access**: Server Components can directly access backend resources like databases and file systems without needing to build an API.
3. **Automatic Code Splitting**: Client components imported within a Server Component tree are automatically code-split.
Server vs. Client Components
| Feature | Server Components | Client Components |
| --------------- | -------------------------- | --------------------------- |
| Environment | Server-side only | Server (SSR) then Client |
| Interactivity | No (cannot use state/hooks)| Yes (can use state/hooks) |
| Backend Access | Yes, direct | No, via API calls |
This new model allows for a more integrated and efficient way to build full-stack React applications.