Forking creates new Node.js processes that run separate instances of the V8 engine, ideal for CPU-intensive tasks that would block the main event loop. As the creator of CoreUI, a widely used open-source UI library, I’ve implemented process forking in Node.js applications throughout my 11 years of backend development. The most effective approach is using the fork method from the child_process module to spawn Node.js child processes with built-in IPC communication. This method enables message passing between parent and child processes while maintaining process isolation.

The exec method executes shell commands in Node.js with buffered output, ideal for simple commands that produce small amounts of data and complete quickly. As the creator of CoreUI, a widely used open-source UI library, I’ve used exec for simple command execution in Node.js scripts throughout my 11 years of backend development. The most straightforward approach is using the exec method from the child_process module for quick shell commands that return limited output. This method buffers the entire output in memory, making it convenient for commands like git status or npm version.

Spawning child processes enables Node.js applications to execute external commands and programs with real-time output streaming and better resource management than buffered alternatives. As the creator of CoreUI, a widely used open-source UI library, I’ve implemented process spawning in Node.js build tools throughout my 11 years of backend development. The most efficient approach is using the spawn method from the child_process module for commands that produce large outputs or run for extended periods. This method streams output as it becomes available, preventing memory issues with large data.

Child processes enable Node.js applications to execute external commands, scripts, and programs in separate processes with proper resource isolation. As the creator of CoreUI, a widely used open-source UI library, I’ve implemented child process management in Node.js applications throughout my 11 years of backend development. The most versatile approach is using the child_process module’s spawn method for streaming output and flexible command execution. This method provides real-time output handling and better memory management for long-running processes.