# The Data Layer

Neutron isn't just a rendering framework; it's a full-stack platform. The `nucleus` package provides a unified, high-performance backend layer that covers everything your app needs.

## Why a Unified Data Layer?

Most frameworks leave the "backend" to you, leading to fragmented setups with different libraries for databases, caching, and queues. Neutron takes a different approach by providing a single, coherent package that:

1.  **Eliminates Boilerplate**: Everything is pre-configured and designed to work together.
2.  **Optimizes Performance**: Built-in auto-caching and parallel loading.
3.  **Simplifies Scaling**: A stateless architecture that scale horizontally with ease.

## Core Stack

| Component | Technology | Role |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **Database** | PostgreSQL / SQLite | Primary persistence with Drizzle ORM. |
| **Cache & Queue** | Dragonfly | Drop-in Redis replacement for speed and efficiency. |
| **Auth** | Better Auth | Full-featured authentication with session management. |
| **Storage** | S3-Compatible | Standard protocol for file storage (AWS, R2, etc). |

## Environment Awareness

Neutron automatically detects your environment to provide the best developer experience:

-   **Development**: Uses **SQLite** (zero config) and a local Dragonfly instance.
-   **Production**: Connects to **PostgreSQL** and your production Dragonfly/S3 services.

You can customize this behavior in your `neutron.config.ts`.