Backend Topology

init supports three backend shapes. A scaffolded project does not require all three backend shapes.

TanStack Start

apps/app is independently full-stack. Its server routes and functions provide the smallest backend option when a scaffolded project only needs the web application. They do not require apps/api.

Hono API

apps/api is an optional Hono service. It runs on Bun and exposes Hono RPC and tRPC clients from apps/api/src/client.ts. Application workspaces can import only this file from another application workspace. It also contains the authenticated Files SDK gateway.

Run the local connect-backend template command to connect client application workspaces. The template command owns adapter seams and environment wiring. Application workspaces never import source from apps/api outside the exported client contract.

Convex

packages/backend is an optional Convex backend with API types that Convex generates and a React client. It exists in packages/ because application workspaces consume it as a workspace library. It deploys independently to Convex.

Run the local connect-backend template command to add the client provider and authentication wiring to supported application workspaces. When you select Convex, you explicitly select a workspace and a hosted service.

Local defaults

The default application core runs without a hosted account. Local service dependencies use infra/local/docker-compose.yml. Optional backend workspaces and client adapters must remain removable. Their removal must not leave imports, environment requirements, or build failures.