Can I use node.js npm and socket.io on google app engine

Question

Can I use node.js npm and socket.io on google app engine

or suggest some low-cost or free solution on cloud that provide a socket.io module becouse I need this for realtime omunication with server

Answer 1

Node support on Google App Engine is available through what Google calls "The App Engine flexible environment". Where your code is running in a docker container hosted by Google. This is in contrast to "The App Engine standard environment" where your code is running in some soft of custom built container. More info here. Documentation for Node on Google App Engine can be found here.

NOTE: The flexible environment is currently in beta! And according to Google not recommended for production use.

Web sockets can be used on Google App Engine. However according to this example for using websockets on Google App Engine; encrypted websockets are currently not supported.

For alternative hosting: The Node wiki maintains a list of hosting providers; old wiki(but somewhat maintained), new wiki. On these wiki pages you can find different types of both free and paid plans for Node hosting.