KnockoutJS - Overview

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KnockoutJS is basically a library written in JavaScript, based on MVVM pattern that helps developers build rich and responsive websites. The model separates the application's Model (stored data), View (UI) and View Model (JavaScript Representation of model).

KnockoutJS was developed and is maintained as an open source project by Steve Sanderson, a Microsoft employee on July 5, 2010. KO is an abbreviation used for KnockoutJS. KO supports all mainstream browsers - IE 6+, Firefox 3.5+, Chrome, Opera, Safari (desktop/mobile).

Features of KnockoutJS

Here is a list of some of the most prominent features of KnockoutJS −

  • Declarative Binding − HTML DOM elements are connected to the model through data-bind attribute using a very simple syntax. It is made easy to achieve responsiveness using this feature.

  • Automatic UI Refresh − Any changes made to view the model data are reflected in the UI automatically and vice-versa. No need of writing extra code.

  • Dependency Tracking − Relationship between KO attributes and KO library functions/components is transparent. Automatically tracks data changes in KO attribute and updates respective affected areas.

  • Templating − Templates are a simple and convenient way to build complex UI structures - with the possibility of repeating or nesting blocks - as a function of view model data.

  • Extensible − Extends custom behavior very easily.

Why Use KnockoutJS?

  • KnockoutJS library provides an easy and clean way to handle complex data-driven interfaces. One can create self-updating UIs for Javascript objects.

  • It is pure JavaScript Library and works with any web framework. It's not a replacement of JQuery but can work as a supplement providing smart features.

  • KnockoutJS library file is very small and lightweight.

  • KnockoutJS is independent of any other framework. It is compatible with other client or server side technologies.

  • Most important of all KnockoutJS is open source and hence free for use.

  • KnockoutJS is fully documented. The official site has full documentation including API docs, live examples, and interactive tutorials.

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