we have successfully deployed a full-stack application combining Django and React.js on a Virtual Private Server (VPS) running Ubuntu 22.04. This deployment process was an excellent opportunity to integrate backend and frontend technologies seamlessly and ensure a smooth, secure, and efficient production environment.
Deploying a React.js and Django application involves a series of meticulously coordinated steps to ensure a seamless setup and operation. Below is a summary of the deployment process:
Configure Ubuntu 22.04 on VPS: Start by setting up Ubuntu 22.04 on a Virtual Private Server (VPS) to provide a stable and secure environment for deployment.
Upload Project Files: Transfer the React.js and Django project files to the VPS.
Configure DNS Records: Set up DNS records to point the domain to the VPS.
Set Up Directories and File Paths: Configure the necessary directories and file paths for the project on the server.
Install Python 3: Install Python 3, the necessary version for Django, on the VPS.
Install Python Dependencies: Run the requirements.txt file to install all the required Python dependencies.
Install Node.js and npm: Set up Node.js and npm, which are necessary for building and managing the React.js frontend.
Set Up Python Virtual Environment: Create a Python virtual environment to manage dependencies and isolate the project environment.
Generate React.js Build: Build the React.js application to create static files that will be served by the Django backend.
Run collectstatic Command in Django: Use the Django collectstatic command to gather all static files, including the React build, in a single directory.
Install MySQL and configure it for the project. Create a new database and user, then integrate these with the Django settings.
Set up a Redis server, which is often used for caching and managing asynchronous tasks in Django applications.
Install and Configure Nginx Server: Nginx is installed and configured to act as a reverse proxy server, serving static files and managing requests.
Daphne is installed and configured as the ASGI server to handle WebSocket connections for the Django application.
This comprehensive deployment process involved integrating several moving parts to create a reliable, scalable, and secure application environment. It has been an incredible learning experience, enhancing skills in server configuration, DNS management, security, and deploying full-stack applications