Introduction to React Server Components

React Server Components (RSC) represent a paradigm shift in how we think about React applications.

What Are Server Components?

Server Components run only on the server and:

• Have direct access to backend resources
• Reduce client-side JavaScript
• Improve initial page load

Client vs Server Components

Server Components

• Access to databases, file system
• No state or effects
• streamed to the client

Client Components

• Interactive with state/effects
• Run in the browser
• Use 'use client' directive

Example

// Server Component
import db from '@/lib/db';

export default async function PostsList() {
  const posts = await db.posts.findMany();
  return (
    <div>
      {posts.map(post => (
        <PostCard key={post.id} post={post} />
      ))}
    </div>
  );
}

Best Practices

1. Default to Server Components
2. Only use Client Components when needed
3. Pass data to Client Components as props

Conclusion

Server Components are the future of React, enabling better performance and developer experience.