jQuery

jQuery is a JavaScript library that simplifies DOM manipulation, event handling, animations, and HTTP requests through a consistent API. It was especially important when browsers implemented many features differently. Numerous existing websites, plugins, and content management systems still use jQuery.

Modern browsers provide standard APIs for many tasks previously handled by jQuery. New, lightweight projects therefore often do not require the additional dependency. In existing systems, however, removing it may create more effort and risk than value. Actual dependencies, payload size, maintainability, browser requirements, and a tested migration plan should guide the decision.

• Library for DOM, events, and HTTP requests
• Still common in many existing systems
• Often unnecessary for modern new projects
• Do not remove without checking existing plugins
• Balance value against payload and maintenance