How to Retrieve a Directory Listing in Node.js Using `fs.readdir` and `fs.readdirSync`?

Retrieving a Directory Listing in Node.js

In Node.js, accessing a list of file names within a specific directory is a common task. By utilizing the 'fs' module, developers can achieve this with ease.

Solution

To obtain an array of file names in a given directory, the 'fs.readdir' or 'fs.readdirSync' methods can be employed. 'fs' is readily available in Node.js core, eliminating the need for external installations.

fs.readdir (Asynchronous Method)

const testFolder = './tests/';
const fs = require('fs');

fs.readdir(testFolder, (err, files) => {
  files.forEach(file => {
    console.log(file);
  });
});

This approach involves an asynchronous operation. A callback function is specified to handle the completion of the read process, allowing the code to continue execution while the read operation is carried out.

fs.readdirSync (Synchronous Method)

const testFolder = './tests/';
const fs = require('fs');

fs.readdirSync(testFolder).forEach(file => {
  console.log(file);
});

In contrast, 'fs.readdirSync' performs a synchronous operation, returning an array of file names immediately. However, it halts further code execution until the read process is complete. This feature can be beneficial for scenarios where immediate access to the file list is required.

Understanding the Difference

The primary distinction between the two methods lies in their synchronous vs. asynchronous nature. Asynchronous operations allow for non-blocking execution, while synchronous operations pause code execution until completion. The choice between these methods depends on the specific requirements of the application.

As a general rule, asynchronous operations are preferred for performance reasons, especially when dealing with I/O-bound tasks like file reads. They enable the continuation of execution without unnecessary delays.

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