Pages Router
ELI5 — The Vibe Check
Pages Router is the OG Next.js routing system where you put files in the pages/ directory and they become routes. Simple, proven, and still works fine. getServerSideProps, getStaticProps - the classics. If App Router is confusing you, Pages Router is your comfort blanket.
Real Talk
Pages Router is Next.js's original routing system based on the pages/ directory. Each file becomes a route with data fetching via getStaticProps, getServerSideProps, or getStaticPaths. It remains fully supported alongside the newer App Router for backward compatibility.
When You'll Hear This
"Pages Router is simpler if you don't need Server Components" / "Half our app is still on Pages Router, we're migrating slowly"
Related Terms
App Router
App Router is Next.js's new routing system that uses the app/ directory and embraces React Server Components.
File-Based Routing
File-Based Routing means your folder structure IS your routing. Create pages/about.vue and you get /about.
Gatsby
Gatsby is the overachiever that pre-builds your entire website into static HTML at build time, then sprinkles React on top for interactivity.