AdonisJS
AdonisJS is a full-stack open-source web framework for Node.js, inspired by Laravel. It is a developer tool, not a data processor or tracking service. GDPR obligations do not arise from the framework itself but from the web application built with it and the infrastructure where it is deployed. Developers using AdonisJS are responsible for implementing GDPR-compliant data handling in their applications.
What does AdonisJS do?
What is AdonisJS?
AdonisJS is a full-featured, open-source web framework for Node.js that follows the MVC (Model-View-Controller) architectural pattern. Inspired by Laravel for PHP, it provides built-in tooling for routing, authentication, ORM (Lucid), validation, and templating. AdonisJS is used by development teams to build API backends, server-rendered web applications, and microservices. It is a developer tool and not itself a data processor, tracking service, or third-party vendor.
How does GDPR apply to AdonisJS?
AdonisJS is open-source software that runs on the developer's own infrastructure. GDPR obligations are not triggered by the framework itself but by the application built with it. The organisation deploying the AdonisJS application is the data controller. GDPR compliance depends on what personal data the application processes, how it processes it, where it is hosted, and what third-party services it integrates.
Session cookies and consent
AdonisJS includes built-in session management that uses cookies to maintain server-side sessions. Session cookies used solely for authentication (keeping a user logged in) are generally considered strictly necessary and do not require ePrivacy consent. Analytics, tracking, or personalisation cookies added by the developer do require consent. Developers should configure AdonisJS session settings to use secure, HttpOnly, SameSite cookies and implement appropriate consent management.
Developer GDPR responsibilities
When building with AdonisJS, developers are responsible for implementing data minimisation in database models, access controls for personal data, data subject rights endpoints (access, erasure, portability), audit logging for sensitive data access, encryption for sensitive fields, and secure password hashing. AdonisJS's Lucid ORM and authentication package provide solid foundations for these requirements.
Deployment and data location
AdonisJS can be deployed on any infrastructure. For EU data residency, deploy on EU-based hosting such as OVHcloud, Hetzner, or AWS Frankfurt. The hosting provider acts as a data processor and requires a DPA. The framework itself does not determine data location.
Practical compliance steps
Implement a cookie consent management system. Configure session cookies as strictly necessary only. Use EU-based hosting with a signed DPA. Implement data subject rights handlers. Apply data minimisation in database models. Encrypt sensitive fields. Conduct DPIAs for high-risk processing features.
AdonisJS and the GDPR
- Legal basis
- AdonisJS is a framework, not a data processor. GDPR obligations arise from the application built with AdonisJS and its deployment infrastructure, not from the framework itself. The developer is responsible for implementing appropriate legal bases in their application.
- Risk level
- low
- Applicable regulations
- GDPR compliance is the responsibility of the application developer, not the AdonisJS framework
Impact assessment (DPIA)
A DPIA is not required for using AdonisJS itself. DPIAs may be required for specific applications built with AdonisJS that process large-scale personal data, perform automated decision-making, or handle special category data.
Sample text for your banner
This website is built using AdonisJS, an open-source Node.js framework. Cookies and data collection on this site are described separately in our privacy policy and cookie notice.
What AdonisJS sets and contacts
- Tracking method
- Server-side Node.js web framework, no client-side tracking by default
- Server location
- Self-hosted (deployer's infrastructure)
- Cookieless mode available
- Yes
Cookies set (1)
| Name | Type | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| adonis-session | session | Session | Strictly necessary server-side session cookie used for user authentication in AdonisJS applications |
Third-party domains contacted (2)
adonisjs.comnpm.adonisjs.com
Frequently asked questions about AdonisJS
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Is AdonisJS itself subject to GDPR?
No. AdonisJS is an open-source framework, not a data processor or third-party service. GDPR applies to the application built with AdonisJS and the organisation running it, not to the framework code itself. The framework does not collect or process personal data independently.
Do AdonisJS session cookies require consent?
Authentication session cookies are generally considered strictly necessary and do not require ePrivacy consent. However, any analytics, tracking, or personalisation cookies added to an AdonisJS application by the developer require prior consent under the ePrivacy Directive.
What is the legal basis for data processed in AdonisJS applications?
The legal basis depends on the application's purpose and design, not the framework. Common bases include contract performance for user accounts and services, legitimate interest for security logging, and consent for optional features like newsletters or tracking.
Does AdonisJS transfer data outside the EU?
AdonisJS itself does not transfer data anywhere. Transfer obligations depend entirely on where the developer deploys their AdonisJS application and which third-party services they integrate.
Do I need a DPIA for my AdonisJS application?
A DPIA is not required for AdonisJS itself. It may be required for specific features in your AdonisJS application that process large-scale personal data, perform automated decision-making, or handle special category data.
How should I implement GDPR compliance in my AdonisJS application?
Implement cookie consent management, configure secure session cookies, build data subject rights endpoints (access, erasure, portability), apply data minimisation in database models, encrypt sensitive fields, implement access controls, and sign DPAs with any third-party services you integrate.
Where should I host my AdonisJS application for GDPR compliance?
For EU data residency, deploy on EU-based infrastructure such as OVHcloud, Hetzner, Scaleway, or AWS Frankfurt. Sign a Data Processing Agreement with your hosting provider. Avoid logging unnecessary personal data and implement appropriate data retention policies.
Does using AdonisJS affect my privacy policy?
AdonisJS itself does not need to be mentioned in your privacy policy. However, all data processing in your AdonisJS application must be described, including what data is collected, the legal basis, retention periods, and any third-party processors integrated with the application.
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