What platforms do you recommend for deploying backend or fullstack projects with database?

[SUra-95]

I'm searching for a free backend deployment solution for projects that are developed using technology like Node.js, Laravel, and NestJS.  It is better if there are free options with CI/CD support like GitHub Actions or similar. Any tips for handling environment variables and databases securely in deployment?

[Rushan-Chithranga]

Free Backend Deployment Platforms

1. Render

• Features:

  • Free tier for web services (750 hours/month).
  • Built-in CI/CD that deploys directly from GitHub or GitLab.
  • Easy environment variable management via a secure dashboard.
  • Free PostgreSQL database with a 90-day trial.

• Supported Technologies: Node.js, Laravel, NestJS, and more.

• Tips for Secure Deployment:

  • Add .env variables in the Render dashboard.
  • Use secrets management for API keys and database credentials.

  Render

2. Vercel

• Features:

  • Excellent for fullstack Node.js and NestJS applications.
  • Free tier for personal projects.
  • CI/CD via GitHub or GitLab.
  • Serverless function support for lightweight backends.

• Limitations:

  • Not ideal for Laravel or stateful applications requiring persistent storage.

• Tips:

  • Use Vercel's Environment Variables feature for secure key management.

    Vercal

3. Fly.io

• Features:

  • Free tier with 3 shared CPU-256MB RAM instances and 160GB transfer.
  • Supports running Dockerized applications, making it compatible with most backend stacks.
  • Supports persistent storage volumes for databases.

• Tips:

  • Use .env files or Fly.io secrets for environment variables.

  • Leverage their free database hosting options for smaller projects.

    Fly.io

4. Heroku

• Features:

  • Free tier (Eco plan for non-commercial apps).
  • One-click deployment and GitHub integration.
  • Free PostgreSQL database on the hobby tier.
  • Built-in CI/CD pipelines and environment management.

• Limitations:

  • Sleep mode for free-tier apps can slow down initial responses.

• Tips:

  • Use Config Vars in the dashboard for environment variables.

  • Upgrade to paid plans for production-grade services.

    Heroku

Free Database Options

• Supabase

  • Free PostgreSQL database with REST APIs and authentication.
  • Works well with Node.js, Laravel, or NestJS.

  Supabase

• PlanetScale

  • Free MySQL-compatible serverless database.
  • Designed for modern backend applications.

  PlanetScale

• MongoDB Atlas

  • Free tier with 500MB of storage for MongoDB.
  • Ideal for NoSQL-based projects.

  MongoDB

CI/CD Solutions

• GitHub Actions:

  • Integrates with all the platforms listed above.
  • Automates testing, building, and deployment workflows.

• GitLab CI/CD:

  • Built-in CI/CD pipelines with free private repositories.

• Bitbucket Pipelines:

  • Free for small teams with CI/CD integration.