Node.js is a powerful JavaScript runtime built on Chrome’s V8 engine, allowing developers to build scalable network applications. npm, or Node Package Manager, is the default package manager for Node.js, making it easy to install and manage dependencies. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just getting started, installing Node.js and npm is a crucial first step in your development journey. This guide will walk you through the Node.js installation process on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Installing Node.js and npm on Windows
- Download the Installer
- Visit the official Node.js website and download the Windows installer. Choose the LTS (Long-Term Support) version for stability.
- Run the Installer
- Once the download is complete, run the installer. The Node.js setup wizard will guide you through the installation process.
- Accept the license agreement and click ‘Next’.
- Choose the destination folder where you want to install Node.js and click ‘Next’.
- Select the components you want to install. By default, Node.js and npm will be selected.
- Complete the Installation
- Click ‘Install’ to begin the installation process.
- Once the installation is complete, click ‘Finish’ to exit the setup wizard.
- Verify the Installation
- Open Command Prompt and run the following commands to verify the installation:shCopy codenode -v npm -v
- You should see the version numbers of Node.js and npm, indicating a successful installation.
Installing Node.js and npm on Mac
- Download the Installer
- Visit the official Node.js website and download the macOS installer. Choose the LTS version for stability.
- Run the Installer
- Once the download is complete, open the installer. The Node.js setup wizard will guide you through the installation process.
- Follow the prompts to install Node.js and npm.
- Verify the Installation
- Open Terminal and run the following commands to verify the installation:shCopy codenode -v npm -v
- You should see the version numbers of Node.js and npm, indicating a successful installation.
- Using Homebrew (Alternative Method)
- If you prefer using Homebrew, a package manager for macOS, you can install Node.js and npm with the following commands:shCopy codebrew update brew install node
- Verify the installation by running:shCopy codenode -v npm -v
Installing Node.js and npm on Linux
- Using NodeSource Repository
- Open Terminal and update your package list:shCopy codesudo apt update
- Install the NodeSource repository for the desired version of Node.js:shCopy codecurl -fsSL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_lts.x | sudo -E bash –
- Install Node.js and npm:shCopy codesudo apt install -y nodejs
- Verify the installation by running:shCopy codenode -v npm -v
- Using nvm (Node Version Manager)
- nvm is a popular method for managing multiple Node.js versions on a single machine.
- Install nvm by running:shCopy codecurl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.1/install.sh | bash
- Load nvm and install Node.js:shCopy codesource ~/.bashrc nvm install node
- Verify the installation by running:shCopy codenode -v npm -v
- For Fedora and CentOS
- Update your package list and install the NodeSource repository:shCopy codecurl -fsSL https://rpm.nodesource.com/setup_lts.x | sudo bash –
- Install Node.js and npm:shCopy codesudo dnf install -y nodejs
- Verify the installation by running:shCopy codenode -v npm -v
Conclusion
Installing Node.js and npm is a straightforward process on Windows, Mac, and Linux. By following the steps outlined above, you can set up your development environment and start building robust applications with ease.
For a more detailed guide on how to install Node.js, including troubleshooting tips and advanced configurations, please refer to the comprehensive tutorial on how to install Node.js.
Ensuring a smooth installation of Node.js and npm is critical, whether you’re an individual developer or part of a Node.js development company. With these tools properly set up, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any project and deliver high-quality applications. Happy coding!
