Description #
Strapi is an open-source headless CMS written in JavaScript that gives developers full control over content management, APIs, and permissions using a modern, extensible interface.
History #
Strapi was launched in 2015 by Pierre Burgy and became one of the first self-hosted Node.js-based headless CMSs. It rose in popularity due to its developer-first philosophy, plug-and-play REST/GraphQL APIs, and intuitive admin dashboard.
Hello World Code #
module.exports = {
async hello(ctx) {
ctx.body = "Hello, World!";
},
};
(Added as a custom controller in Strapi.)
How to Run #
Option 1: Online
https://strapi.cloud
Option 2: Local
npx create-strapi-app@latest hello-world --quickstart
Key Concepts #
- REST and GraphQL APIs
- Custom content types and roles
- Admin panel with GUI builder
- Plugin architecture
- Auth, media, and permissions out of the box
- Headless CMS — frontend agnostic
- Works with React, Vue, etc.
- File uploads, webhooks
- Self-hosted or cloud options
- Extensible backend via custom controllers
Try It Online #
Fun Facts #
- Strapi means “bootstrap” in French slang, a nod to its startup-friendly approach.
- It offers 100% customization, including the admin panel’s branding and functionality.
- You can auto-generate secure API endpoints for new content types — no code required.
- It’s used by IBM, NASA, and Delivery Hero for high-volume, multilingual content delivery.
- Strapi recently launched Strapi Cloud, offering managed hosting for production apps.