# Using the jQuery JavaScript library

> Add the jQuery library to your web pages, either from your own hosting account or a CDN, and troubleshoot problems.

Source: https://helpcenter.ruachost.com/developers/web-development/using-the-jquery-javascript-library/

Learn how to install and configure jQuery, a popular client-side JavaScript library for web development.

### About jQuery

jQuery is a client-side JavaScript library designed to simplify web development. It includes features for:

- DOM traversal and manipulation
- JSON parsing
- Visual effects
- Event handling
- AJAX interactions

### Using jQuery

To use jQuery in a web page, you include a single JavaScript file. There are two common methods:

#### 1. Host the jQuery file on your **ruachost.com** account

Upload the jQuery library file to a publicly accessible directory (e.g., `public_html`) on your account, then reference it in your HTML:

```
<script src="lib/jquery.min.js"></script>
```

Official download page: [jQuery Download](http://jquery.com/download)

#### 2. Use a jQuery file hosted by a third party

You can reference a jQuery library hosted by an external provider like jQuery, Google, or Microsoft. For example:

```
<script src="http://code.jquery.com/jquery-2.1.0.min.js"></script>
```

After including the library, all jQuery features are available for use in your web page.

### Troubleshooting jQuery-enabled pages

Since jQuery runs in the browser, you can use developer tools to debug issues:

- **Mozilla Firefox:** Tools → Web Developer → Web Console
- **Google Chrome:** Settings → More tools → JavaScript Console
- **Microsoft Internet Explorer:** Settings → F12 developer tools → Script tab

### More information

- Official jQuery site: [http://jquery.com](http://jquery.com/)
- jQuery API documentation: [http://api.jquery.com](http://api.jquery.com/)