> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://govplane.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://govplane.gitbook.io/docs/documentation/getting-started/quickstart-1/node.js.md).

# Node.js

{% hint style="warning" %}
Before proceeding with these steps, read the initial steps of the quick start guide here [Quickstart](/docs/documentation/getting-started/quickstart-1.md)
{% endhint %}

### 1. Install the Runtime SDK

In your Node.js project, install the Govplane Runtime SDK:

```bash
npm install @govplane/runtime-sdk
```

{% hint style="info" %}
For more information and other SDKs, please review the instructions in the [SDK Overview section.](broken://pages/u81NXUCMwtvlj6ZhfKNf)
{% endhint %}

***

### 2. Initialize the Govplane Client

Initialize the client using your Runtime Key:

```typescript
//JavaScript
import { GovplaneClient } from "@govplane/runtime-sdk";

const client = new RuntimeClient({
  baseUrl:    "<YOUR-RUNTIME-ENDPOINT>",
  runtimeKey: "<YOUR-RUNTIME-KEY>",
});

await client.warmStart();           // block until the first bundle is cached
client.start();                     // start background polling
```

Make sure your `GOVPLANE_RUNTIME_KEY` is securely stored as an environment variable.

For other SDKs, please review the instructions in the [SDK Overview section.](broken://pages/u81NXUCMwtvlj6ZhfKNf)

***

### 3. Implement Your First Policy Evaluation

You can now evaluate your policy from your application:

```typescript
//JavaScript
const result = await client.evaluate({
  target:  { service: "api-gateway", resource: req.route?.path || "*", action: "request" },
  context: { method: req.method, path: req.path },
});

console.log(result);
```

The evaluation response will contain the final effect (Allow/Deny) and additional metadata if applicable.

***

### 4. Run and Verify

Start your Node.js application and:

* Trigger your evaluation logic
* Check your logs
* Confirm the returned effect matches your expected outcome

If everything is working correctly, your first Govplane-powered governance plane is live.


---

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