Understanding React Server Components in Next.js 14

Introduction

React Server Components (RSC) represent a fundamental shift in how we think about building React applications. They allow us to render components on the server, reducing the JavaScript bundle size and improving initial page load performance.

What are React Server Components?

Server Components are a new type of component that runs exclusively on the server. Unlike traditional React components, they:

Don't add to the client JavaScript bundle

Can directly access server resources (databases, file systems, etc.)

Cannot use client-side features like useState or event handlers

// This is a Server Component by default in Next.js 14
async function UserProfile({ userId }: { userId: string }) {
  // Direct database access - no API needed!
  const user = await db.user.findUnique({ where: { id: userId } });
  
  return (
    <div>
      <h1>{user.name}</h1>
      <p>{user.bio}</p>
    </div>
  );
}

When to Use Client Components

You should use Client Components (with the 'use client' directive) when you need:

**Interactivity**: useState, useEffect, event handlers

**Browser APIs**: localStorage, window, etc.

**Custom hooks** that depend on state or effects

'use client';

import { useState } from 'react';

function Counter() {
  const [count, setCount] = useState(0);
  
  return (
    <button onClick={() => setCount(count + 1)}>
      Count: {count}
    </button>
  );
}

Best Practices

**Keep Client Components at the leaves** - Move interactive parts to smaller components

**Pass Server Components as children** - This keeps them on the server

**Use async/await freely** - Server Components support async functions

Conclusion

React Server Components are a powerful addition to the React ecosystem. By understanding when to use them, you can build faster, more efficient applications.

Introduction

What are React Server Components?

When to Use Client Components

Best Practices

Conclusion

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