Node.js is primarily used as a server-side runtime environment for executing JavaScript code. It provides a platform that allows developers to build scalable and efficient server-side applications. Node.js uses an event-driven, non-blocking I/O model, which makes it well-suited for handling concurrent requests and real-time applications.

On the other hand, for front-end development, the focus is on building user interfaces and interactive experiences in the web browser. This involves technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue.js.

However, Node.js has a rich ecosystem of modules and tools that can be utilized in front-end development workflows. Some of these tools, such as npm (Node Package Manager), can be beneficial for managing front-end dependencies and automating build processes. Additionally, developers might use Node.js based build tools like Grunt or Gulp to streamline front-end development tasks such as code minification, bundling, and testing.

While Node.js can support certain front-end development tasks indirectly, it is not the primary choice for front-end development itself. Its main role is to serve as a server-side technology, handling requests, processing data, and interacting with databases or other external services.