Express.js, created by TJ Holowaychuk in 2010, is a fast, unopinionated, minimalist web framework for Node.js. It provides a robust set of features for web and mobile applications — from simple APIs to complex multi-page websites. Express is the de facto standard for Node.js web development: it powers the backends of millions of applications and is the foundation of popular frameworks like NestJS, Sails.js, and Feathers.
The demand for Express.js skills is embedded in the broader Node.js job market. Per Naukri 2026, over 32,000 Node.js job listings require Express.js knowledge. Per industry salary data 2026, backend developers with Express.js expertise earn ₹6–15 LPA at mid-level, with senior full-stack developers (MERN/MEAN) reaching ₹15–30 LPA. Pune offers strong opportunities with average backend salaries of ₹7–12 LPA.
Express.js is valued for its simplicity and flexibility. It provides a thin layer of fundamental web application features without obscuring Node.js features. Middleware functions handle requests, responses, and the next middleware in the application stack — enabling powerful patterns like authentication, logging, error handling, and request validation. The router system supports RESTful API design with clean, semantic URL patterns.
For Pune learners, Express.js is typically taught as a 2–4 week module within Node.js or full-stack courses. It is rarely learned in isolation — it is the practical application of Node.js concepts. Mastering Express.js middleware, routing, and error handling is essential for backend interviews. Companies test candidates on building REST APIs, integrating databases, and implementing authentication with Express.