How to Install Node.js and NPM on Windows

Introduction

Node.js is a powerful JavaScript runtime built on Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine, enabling developers to build scalable network applications easily. Alongside Node.js, the Node Package Manager (NPM) is an essential tool for managing JavaScript packages. Installing Node.js and NPM on a Windows system is a straightforward process. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to install Node.js and NPM on Windows.

Step 1: Download the Node.js Installer

1. Visit the Node.js Website: Open your web browser and go to the official Node.js website at https://nodejs.org.
2. Choose the Installer: You will see download links for the LTS (Long Term Support) and the Current version. For most users, the LTS version is recommended for its stability and extended support. Click on the download link to get the Windows Installer.

Step 2: Run the Node.js Installer

1. Launch the Installer: Once the download is complete, open the downloaded .msi file to launch the Node.js Setup Wizard.
2. Accept the License Agreement: Read the License Agreement, select the checkbox to accept the terms, and click “Next.”
3. Select the Destination Folder: Choose the folder where you want to install Node.js. The default location is usually fine, so click “Next.”
4. Select Components: The default selection of components is recommended. Ensure that the “Node.js runtime” and “npm package manager” options are selected, then click “Next.”
5. Install Tools for Native Modules: The installer may prompt you to install tools necessary for native modules. Select the checkbox if you plan to use native modules, and click “Next.”
6. Install Node.js: Click the “Install” button to begin the installation process. If prompted for permission by User Account Control, click “Yes” to proceed.
7. Complete the Installation: Once the installation is complete, click “Finish” to exit the Setup Wizard.

Step 3: Verify the Installation

1. Open Command Prompt: Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
2. Check Node.js Version: To verify that Node.js was installed correctly, type the following command and press Enter:

This command should display the version of NPM installed on your system.

Step 4: Update NPM (Optional)

NPM updates more frequently than Node.js, so it’s a good idea to update it to the latest version.

1. Update NPM: In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter:

2. Verify the Update: After the update, you can check the NPM version again to ensure the update was successful:

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Node.js and NPM on your Windows system. With Node.js and NPM installed, you can now start building and managing your JavaScript projects efficiently. Whether you are developing server-side applications or working on front-end projects, Node.js and NPM provide a powerful set of tools to streamline your development workflow.

If you have any doubts or need assistance in developing a Node.js application for your specific operating system, contact the prominent Node.js development company — Devstree UK. Our experts will be happy to assist you in building your next project. Happy coding!