Flask Tutorials
Flask is a lightweight Python web framework that helps you build web applications quickly with flexibility and without unnecessary complexity. Create routes, render templates, handle forms, and work with databases using the tools you choose. Flask’s simplicity makes it ideal for APIs, prototypes, and applications where you want full control.
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Scaling Flask apps for production involves adding authentication, implementing REST APIs with Flask-RESTful, and integrating frontend frameworks. Configure caching, set up background tasks with Celery, and deploy to cloud platforms. Work with blueprints to organize large applications and use extensions for common functionality.
Install Flask with pip install flask. Create a Python file, import Flask, define routes with decorators, and run the development server. A minimal app requires just a few lines. Use flask run to start the server and visit localhost:5000 in your browser.
Flask is a microframework that gives you flexibility to choose components, while Django includes batteries for everything from forms to admin interfaces. Use Flask for APIs, small apps, or when you want control. Choose Django for full-featured web applications with built-in tools.
Use Flask-RESTful or build routes that return JSON with jsonify(). Define endpoints with @app.route() and handle HTTP methods with the methods parameter. Add request validation, error handling, and authentication. Return appropriate status codes for each operation.
Use Flask-SQLAlchemy for an ORM that works with PostgreSQL, MySQL, or SQLite. Define models as Python classes, configure the database URI, and use db.create_all() to create tables. Query and insert data with the ORM methods.
Use a WSGI server like Gunicorn instead of Flask’s development server. Set environment variables for configuration, serve static files through a CDN or Nginx, and deploy to platforms like Heroku, AWS, or DigitalOcean. Add logging and monitoring for production.
