Ruby on Rails
Ruby on Rails, often shortened to Rails or RoR, is a web application framework that includes everything needed to create database-backed web applications according to the Model-View-Controller (MVC) pattern. Here's an in-depth look:
History
- 2003-2004: David Heinemeier Hansson began working on the Rails framework while developing Basecamp, a project management tool by 37signals (now known as Basecamp).
- July 2004: Rails was released to the public, with its first version (0.5).
- 2006: Rails 1.0 was released, marking the framework's maturity with features like migrations, generators, and integrated testing frameworks.
- 2013: Rails 4.0 was launched, introducing strong parameters, Turbolinks, and other enhancements for easier development.
- 2016: Rails 5.0 came with Action Cable for real-time features, API mode, and system tests.
- 2018: Rails 6.0 introduced parallel testing, multiple databases, and Webpacker for JavaScript integration.
- 2020: Rails 6.1 brought with it per-database connection switching, horizontal sharding, and multi-database support.
Features and Principles
- Convention over Configuration: Rails reduces the need for developers to write configuration files by assuming sensible defaults.
- Don't Repeat Yourself (DRY): Rails promotes code reuse and minimizes duplication through its design.
- Active Record: An Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) library that simplifies working with databases by representing database tables as Ruby objects.
- Action Pack: Comprises Action Controller for handling web requests and Action View for rendering templates.
- Action Cable: Provides WebSocket support for real-time features like chat or live updates.
- Rails Engines: Allows developers to split applications into reusable components.
Development Environment
Rails is designed to work with Ruby, requiring developers to have Ruby installed. It supports various databases like PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, and others. The framework also integrates with a range of development tools:
Popularity and Use Cases
Rails has been used for:
- High-profile sites like GitHub, Shopify, and Airbnb (in the past).
- Startups and small to medium-sized enterprises looking for rapid development cycles.
- E-commerce platforms, content management systems, and social networking sites.
Resources
Community and Ecosystem
The Rails community is very active, contributing to a rich ecosystem:
- Gems: Ruby libraries that extend Rails functionality.
- RailsConf: An annual conference dedicated to Rails and Ruby.
- RailsCasts (archived), GoRails, and other educational resources.
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