Guide: Deploying a Next.js App using Vercel

Part 1: Testing the Build Locally

Run the Build Command

In your local development environment using VS Code, open a terminal in the root directory of your project and run the following command: bash

npm run build

This will create an optimized production build of your Next.js application.

Check for Errors

If there are any errors during the build process, they will show up in the terminal. Address any issues before proceeding with deployment.

Part 2: Integrating GitHub with Vercel

Navigate to Vercel

Visit the Vercel website ↗ (opens in a new tab).

Log In or Sign Up

If you already have an account, log in. If not, sign up for a new account. You can use your GitHub credentials for this.

Connect Your GitHub Account

After logging in, you'll be directed to your Vercel dashboard. Click on the "Add New..." button and choose "Project".

On the next screen, you'll be asked to Import Git Repository. Click on the Connect with GitHub button to link your GitHub account with Vercel.

If this is your first time connecting Vercel to GitHub, you'll be asked to authorize Vercel. Click on Authorize Vercel and follow the prompts.

Select Your GitHub Repository

After authorizing Vercel, you should see a list of your GitHub repositories. Select the repository containing the Next.js application you want to deploy.

Part 3: Setting Up Deployment

Configure Your Project

After selecting your repository, you'll be asked to configure your project. Most fields will be pre-filled and you can keep the default settings. Make sure the Framework Preset is set to Next.js.

Deploy Your Project

Click on the Deploy button at the bottom of the page. Vercel will begin deploying your Next.js application. This may take a few minutes.

Part 4: Viewing Your Deployed Application

Visit Your Deployed Application

Once your application has been deployed, you'll be redirected to a deployment overview page. Click on the Visit button or the URL at the top of the page to view your deployed Next.js application.

And that's it! You've successfully deployed your Next.js application using Vercel. Any future changes you push to your GitHub repository will automatically trigger a new deployment, keeping your application up-to-date.