How do I deploy my app?
Quick Answer
Most AI tools handle deployment automatically. If deploying manually, Vercel and Netlify are the easiest options with generous free tiers and one-click deployment from GitHub.
Full Explanation
Deployment-getting your app from your computer onto the internet-used to be one of the hardest parts of development. It's now one of the easiest.
Automatic deployment: Tools like Lovable and Bolt deploy your app automatically. You build, you click deploy, you get a URL. This is the simplest path and works fine for most MVPs.
Manual deployment (if you export your code):
Vercel is the most popular choice for Next.js and React apps:
- Connect your GitHub repository
- Click deploy
- Automatic updates when you push code changes
- Free tier handles most projects
- Custom domains are straightforward
Netlify is similar, with slightly different pricing and features. Railway and Render are good for backend-heavy applications.
What you need to understand:
- Environment variables: Configuration that varies between development and production (API keys, database URLs)
- Build process: How your code gets converted into something deployable
- Domains: You'll want a custom domain eventually (yourapp.com instead of yourapp.vercel.app)
Start with automatic deployment from your AI tool. When you outgrow that or want more control, Vercel's learning curve is gentle enough for non-technical founders.
Related Questions
How much does hosting cost?
Free to $100/month for most apps. Vercel and Netlify offer free tiers that handle MVPs. Costs scale with traffic-budget $20-50/month for apps with real users.
Can I export my code from Lovable/Bolt?
Yes, both Lovable and Bolt let you export your code. You get standard React/Next.js projects that can be deployed anywhere and developed with any tool.
What's the difference between no-code and vibe coding?
No-code uses visual builders with fixed components. Vibe coding uses AI to generate real code from descriptions, giving you more flexibility but requiring more learning.
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Related Questions
What's the difference between no-code and vibe coding?
No-code uses visual builders with fixed components. Vibe coding uses AI to generate real code from descriptions, giving...
How much does hosting cost?
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Can I export my code from Lovable/Bolt?
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Is AI-generated code production ready?
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