Installing Node.js: A Comprehensive Guide for Windows, macOS, and Linux

Node.js is a runtime environment enabling JavaScript execution server-side, facilitating backend development, real-time applications, and APIs. Correct installation is essential for developers of all skill levels. This article details the installation process for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems, along with verification steps and considerations for managing multiple Node.js versions. Node.js benefits include a non-blocking, event-driven architecture, high performance due to the V8 JavaScript engine, and a large ecosystem supported by the Node Package Manager (npm).

Installation on Windows

The primary method for installing Node.js on Windows involves downloading and running the Windows Installer (.msi) file from the official Node.js website. Users should select the Long-Term Support (LTS) version for enhanced stability.

The installation process consists of the following steps:

Download the appropriate Windows Installer (.msi) file, ensuring it matches the system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).
Open the downloaded .msi file to launch the installation wizard.
Accept the Node.js license agreement.
Select the installation destination, accepting the default location or choosing a custom directory.
Review the custom setup options; a standard installation with default features is generally recommended. Options for installing tools for native modules are also presented.
Initiate the installation process by clicking the “Install” button.
Upon completion, click “Finish” to close the installer.

Verification of the installation is performed via the Command Prompt. Users should open Command Prompt (by typing cmd in the Windows search bar) and execute the following commands:

node -v: This command displays the installed Node.js version.
npm -v: This command displays the installed npm (Node Package Manager) version.

Installation on macOS

Several methods are available for installing Node.js on macOS. These include using Homebrew, downloading a macOS installer from the official website, or utilizing Node Version Manager (NVM).

Using Homebrew

If Homebrew is already installed, Node.js can be installed using the following command in the Terminal:

brew install node

If Homebrew is not installed, it must be installed first using the following command:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

After installation (via either method), verify the installation by running:

node -v
npm -v

Downloading the macOS Installer

Users can download the macOS installer (.pkg) file from the official Node.js website, choosing either the LTS or Current version. The downloaded file is then opened and the on-screen instructions are followed to complete the installation. Verification is performed in the Terminal using the same commands as with Homebrew:

node -v
npm -v

Using Node Version Manager (NVM)

NVM allows users to manage multiple Node.js versions. Installation involves running the following command in the Terminal:

curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.0/install.sh | bash

After NVM is installed, a specific Node.js version can be installed using a command such as:

nvm install node (installs the latest version)

Verification is then performed using:

node -v
npm -v

Installation on Linux

Installation on Linux varies depending on the distribution. The documentation specifically details instructions for Ubuntu/Debian-based distributions.

Using APT (Ubuntu/Debian)

Ensure the curl command-line tool is installed. If not, install it using:
- sudo apt install curl
Copy and paste the appropriate Node.js installation command for the desired version into the terminal. For example, to install Node.js v14.x:
- curl -fsSL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_14.x | sudo -E bash -
- sudo apt-get install -y nodejs
Clear the terminal using the clear command.
Verify the installation by running:
- node -v
- npm -v

Managing Multiple Node.js Versions

The documentation highlights NVM (Node Version Manager) as the recommended method for managing multiple Node.js versions. This is particularly useful for developers working on projects with differing Node.js version requirements. NVM allows for easy switching between installed versions.

Additional Considerations

The documentation notes that the Node.js installer includes npm (Node Package Manager), eliminating the need for separate installation. When installing on Windows, it is important to ensure the correct version (32-bit or 64-bit) is downloaded based on the operating system architecture. On Linux, users should consult the official Node.js website for specific installation instructions tailored to their distribution.

Conclusion

Installing Node.js is a straightforward process across Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms. Utilizing the official installers or package managers like Homebrew and NVM simplifies the process. Proper verification of the installation using node -v and npm -v is crucial. For developers requiring multiple Node.js versions, NVM provides a robust solution for managing different environments. Selecting the LTS version is generally recommended for stability in production environments.