What are the key features of npm and Yarn?

What are the key features of npm and Yarn?

Both npm and Yarn are package managers for JavaScript, but they have some distinct features. npm is the default package manager for Node.js, while Yarn was developed by Facebook to address some of npm's shortcomings. Yarn offers features like offline caching, faster installs, and a lockfile for consistent installs across environments.

Can you explain the offline caching feature in Yarn?

Sure! Yarn's offline caching feature allows you to install packages without an internet connection. When you install a package for the first time, Yarn saves it in a local cache. If you try to install the same package again later, Yarn can retrieve it from the cache instead of downloading it again, which speeds up the installation process.

How does the lockfile work in Yarn?

The lockfile in Yarn, called yarn.lock, ensures that the same package versions are installed across different environments. When you install packages, Yarn generates this file, which records the exact versions of dependencies. This way, if someone else installs the project, they will get the same versions, preventing potential issues caused by version mismatches.

Are there any performance differences between npm and Yarn?

Yes, Yarn is generally faster than npm due to its parallel installation process and caching mechanism. However, npm has made significant improvements in its performance with recent updates, so the difference may not be as pronounced as it once was.