How to Install Node.JS and NPM on Windows: A Complete Guide in 2025

Installing Node.js and npm on Windows is straightforward and essential for JavaScript development. Begin by downloading the installer from the Node.js official website. Choose the LTS (Long-Term Support) version, which is recommended for most users due to its stability. Once the .msi file is downloaded, run the installer and follow the setup wizard. During the installation process, ensure you select the option to install npm (Node Package Manager) alongside Node.js.

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After installation, it’s important to verify that both Node.js and npm are installed correctly. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and type node -v to check the Node.js version installed. Similarly, type npm -v to see the npm version. Both commands should return version numbers, confirming a successful installation.

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If you need to update npm to the latest version, you can do so by running npm install -g npm@latest in your Command Prompt or PowerShell. This setup will enable you to manage packages and dependencies effectively, paving the way for efficient JavaScript development. With Node.js and npm installed, you’re equipped to start building applications and using a wealth of libraries available in the npm ecosystem.

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What is a Node.js?

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Node.js is an open-source, cross-platform JavaScript runtime environment that enables developers to execute JavaScript code server-side. Unlike traditional web servers that handle HTTP requests and responses, Node.js allows for the creation of scalable, high-performance applications by leveraging JavaScript’s asynchronous, event-driven architecture.

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Here's a closer look at its key features:

• Asynchronous and Non-blocking I/O: Node.js uses an event-driven, non-blocking I/O model, making it lightweight and efficient for handling multiple concurrent connections. This means that operations such as reading files, querying databases, or making network requests do not block the execution of other tasks.

• Single Programming Language: With Node.js, developers can use JavaScript for both client-side and server-side code. This unification simplifies development and streamlines workflows.

• Package Management: Node.js comes with npm (Node Package Manager), which is a robust ecosystem of libraries and tools that can be easily installed and managed. npm facilitates code reuse and modular development.

• Event-Driven Architecture: Node.js operates on an event-driven architecture, where events trigger callbacks. This model is particularly suited for I/O-heavy applications like web servers, real-time chat applications, and RESTful APIs.

• Scalability: Its design is optimised for scalability, making it a popular choice for building high-performance applications that need to handle a large number of simultaneous connections.

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In essence, Node.js extends JavaScript’s capabilities to server-side programming, allowing developers to build fast, scalable network applications efficiently.

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What is NPM?

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npm, which stands for Node Package Manager, is a vital tool in the Node.js ecosystem. It is the default package manager for Node.js and serves several important functions:

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• Package Management: npm enables developers to install, share, and manage dependencies or libraries required for their projects. These packages, also known as modules or libraries, can be easily added to a project with a single command.

• Registry: npm hosts a vast repository of open-source packages on its registry, which contains hundreds of thousands of reusable code modules. This registry allows developers to find and incorporate libraries for various functionalities, such as database access, web frameworks, and utility functions.

• Version Control: npm helps manage different versions of packages. Developers can specify which versions of packages their project depends on, ensuring compatibility and stability. It also provides tools to update packages to newer versions when needed.

• Scripts: npm allows developers to define and run custom scripts for tasks such as testing, building, or deploying applications. These scripts are defined in the package.json file and can automate repetitive development tasks.

• Project Configuration: The package.json file, created and maintained by npm, contains metadata about the project, including its name, version, dependencies, and scripts. This file helps keep track of the project's configuration and dependencies.

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Overall, npm simplifies the management of project dependencies, enhances productivity, and promotes code reuse within the Node.js ecosystem.

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Prerequisites to Install and Setup Node.js on Windows

Before diving into the installation of Node.js on Windows, it's essential to ensure you have a few prerequisites in place. Having a compatible Windows operating system, administrative access, and a stable internet connection will streamline the setup process.

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Additionally, while not strictly necessary, having a text editor or IDE can enhance your development experience. By preparing these elements in advance, you’ll be ready to quickly and efficiently install Node.js and start building your projects. Before installing and setting up Node.js on Windows, ensure you meet the following prerequisites.

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1. Windows Operating System

• Make sure your Windows version is compatible with Node.js. Most modern versions of Windows, including Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11, are supported.

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2. Administrator Access

• You need administrative privileges on your Windows machine to install software. If you’re not an administrator, you may need to ask someone with the appropriate permissions to install Node.js for you.

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3. Internet Connection

• A stable internet connection is required to download the Node.js installer and, if needed, to fetch packages from npm.

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4. Basic System Requirements

• Ensure your system meets the basic hardware requirements for running Node.js. While Node.js is lightweight, having adequate RAM and CPU resources will ensure smooth performance.

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5. Optional: Text Editor or IDE

• Although not a strict prerequisite, having a text editor or integrated development environment (IDE) such as Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, or Atom will greatly enhance your development experience.

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6. Previous Software Installations

• While not necessary, having software like Git installed can be beneficial for version control and working with repositories.

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Once these prerequisites are in place, you’re ready to download and install Node.js, setting up your environment for development with JavaScript.

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How to Install Node.js and NPM on Windows?

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Installing Node.js and npm on Windows is a quick and easy process that sets up your development environment for JavaScript applications. By following a few simple steps, you can download and install both tools, ensuring you're ready to start coding and managing packages efficiently.

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This guide will walk you through each step to get Node.js and npm up and running on your Windows machine. Installing Node.js and npm on Windows is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:

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1. Download Node.js Installer

1. Visit the Node.js Website:

• Open your web browser and navigate to the Node.js official website.

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2. Choose the Installer:

• On the homepage, you will see two versions: LTS (Long-Term Support) and Current. The LTS version is recommended for most users because it’s more stable and receives longer-term support.

• Click the download link for the Windows Installer (.msi file) under the LTS version.

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2. Run the Installer

1. Open the Installer:

• After the download completes, locate the .msi file in your Downloads folder or the location where it was saved.

• Double-click the file to start the Node.js Setup Wizard.

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2. Follow the Setup Wizard:

• Welcome Screen: Click "Next" to proceed.

• License Agreement: Read and accept the license agreement by selecting "I accept the terms in the License Agreement" and click "Next."

• Choose Installation Location: The default installation path is usually fine for most users. Click "Next" to accept the default path or select a different location if preferred.

• Select Components: Ensure that "Node.js runtime" and "npm package manager" are checked. This ensures both Node.js and npm will be installed. Optionally, you might see a checkbox to install additional tools like Python or Visual Studio Build Tools. These are recommended for compiling native modules but are optional for basic usage. Click "Next."

• Install: Click "Install" to begin the installation process. You might be prompted by a User Account Control (UAC) window; if so, click "Yes" to allow the installer to make changes to your system.

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3. Complete the Installation:

• Once the installation is complete, click "Finish" to exit the setup wizard.

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3. Verify Installation

1. Open Command Prompt:

• Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, type cmd, and press Enter to open Command Prompt. Alternatively, you can search for "Command Prompt" in the Start menu.

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2. Check Node.js Version:

• In the Command Prompt window, type node -v and press Enter. This command displays the installed Node.js version. You should see something like vXX.XX.X, where XX.XX.X represents the version number.

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3. Check npm Version:

• Type npm -v and press Enter. This command displays the installed npm version. You should see a version number like X.X.X.

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4. Update npm (Optional)

1. Open Command Prompt:

• If you have closed Command Prompt, reopen it as described above.

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2. Update npm:

• Type npm install -g npm@latest and press Enter. This command updates npm to the latest version globally. The -g flag stands for “global,” meaning it applies to all projects on your system.

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5. Test Your Setup

1. Create a Test JavaScript File:

• Open a text editor of your choice (such as Notepad or Visual Studio Code) and create a new file named app.js.

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Enter the following code into app.js:

console.log('Hello, Node.js!');

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• Save the file in a directory of your choice.

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2. Run the Test File:

In Command Prompt, navigate to the directory where app.js is saved. You can use the cd command to change directories.

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For example:

cd path\to\your\directory

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• Run the file by typing node app.js and pressing Enter. You should see the output: Hello, Node.js! Displayed in the Command Prompt.

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By following these steps, you’ve successfully installed Node.js and npm on Windows and verified that everything is working correctly. You’re now ready to start developing JavaScript applications and managing dependencies with npm.

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How to Verify if Node.js is Installed or Not?

To confirm if Node.js is installed on your Windows system, you can use Command Prompt or PowerShell to check the version of Node.js and npm. Simply open one of these terminals and run the commands node -v and npm -v.

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If the installation is successful, you’ll see the version numbers for both Node.js and npm. If not, you may need to install or troubleshoot your Node.js setup. To verify if Node.js is installed on your system, follow these steps:

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Using Command Prompt or PowerShell

1. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell:

• Command Prompt: Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.

• PowerShell: Press Win + X and select "Windows PowerShell" or "Windows Terminal" from the menu.

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2. Check Node.js Version:

• Type node -v and press Enter. This command checks the installed version of Node.js.

• Expected Output: If Node.js is installed correctly, you will see the version number, such as v18.15.0. If Node.js is not installed, you will see an error message indicating that the command is not recognized.

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3. Check npm Version:

• Similarly, type npm -v and press Enter. This command checks the installed version of npm (Node Package Manager), which comes bundled with Node.js.

• Expected Output: If npm is installed, you will see the version number, such as 9.6.0. If npm is not installed, you will receive an error message.

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Using the Node.js Command Line Interface

1. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell:

• Follow the same steps as mentioned above to open Command Prompt or PowerShell.

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2. Run Node.js:

• Type node and press Enter to open the Node.js REPL (Read-Eval-Print Loop) environment. You should see a prompt like >, indicating that Node.js is running. You can type JavaScript commands directly here.

• Exit REPL: To exit the Node.js REPL, type .exit or press Ctrl + C twice.

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Troubleshooting

• Command Not Recognized: If you receive an error saying that node or npm is not recognised as a command, Node.js may not be installed, or its installation path may not be added to your system’s PATH environment variable. Reinstall Node.js and ensure the PATH is set correctly during installation.

• Reinstalling: If there are issues with the installation, downloading and running the Node.js installer again can help. Ensure you follow all steps carefully and check installation options related to adding Node.js to the PATH.

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By following these steps, you can confirm whether Node.js and npm are properly installed on your Windows system.

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Set NODE HOME in the Environment Variable

Setting the NODE_HOME environment variable can be useful for specifying the installation directory of Node.js, especially if you have multiple versions installed or need to configure build tools. Here's how to set the NODE_HOME environment variable on a Windows system:

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Steps to Set NODE_HOME Environment Variable on Windows

1. Find the Node.js Installation Path:

• Open File Explorer and navigate to where Node.js is installed. The default location is typically C:\Program Files\nodejs.

• Copy this path, as you will need it to set the environment variable.

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2. Open Environment Variables:

• Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.

• Type sysdm.cpl and press Enter to open the System Properties window.

• Go to the "Advanced" tab and click on "Environment Variables" at the bottom.

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3. Add NODE_HOME Variable:

• In the Environment Variables window, click "New" under the "System variables" section. (If you want to set it only for the current user, add it under the "User variables" section.)

• In the "Variable name" field, enter NODE_HOME.

• In the "Variable value" field, paste the path to your Node.js installation directory (e.g., C:\Program Files\nodejs).

• Click "OK" to save.

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4. Update the PATH Variable (Optional but Recommended):

• In the same Environment Variables window, locate the Path variable in the "System variables" section and select it.

• Click "Edit" and then "New" to add a new entry.

• Enter %NODE_HOME% and click "OK" to save. This step ensures that Node.js executable can be accessed from the command line using the PATH variable.

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5. Verify the Setup:

• Open a new Command Prompt or PowerShell window.

• Type echo %NODE_HOME% and press Enter. You should see the path to your Node.js installation.

• Type node -v and npm -v to verify that Node.js and npm are accessible from the command line.

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By setting the NODE_HOME environment variable, you help ensure that Node.js tools and scripts can correctly locate the Node.js installation directory, aiding in various configurations and build processes.

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Which Command is Used for NPM Installation

To install packages using npm (Node Package Manager), you use the npm install command. Here’s how you use it in different scenarios:

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Installing a Package Locally

Command:

npm install <package-name>

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Example:

npm install express

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This command installs the package express locally in the node_modules directory of your current project. It also updates the package.json file and creates or updates the package-lock.json file to include this dependency.

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Installing a Package Globally

Command:

npm install <package-name>

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Example:

npm install -g typescript

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The -g flag stands for "global," meaning the package is installed globally on your system and is available for use across all projects. This is typically used for command-line tools or utilities that you want to access from anywhere on your system.

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Installing a Specific Version

Command:

npm install <package-name>@<version>

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Example:

npm install lodash@4.17.21

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This command installs a specific version of a package. Replace <package-name> with the desired package name and <version> with the version number you want.

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Installing All Dependencies

Command:

npm install

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This command reads the package.json file in the current directory and installs all dependencies listed under dependencies and devDependencies. It’s commonly used after cloning a project from a repository.

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Uninstalling a Package

Command:

npm uninstall <package-name>

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Example:

npm uninstall express

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This command removes the specified package from your project’s node_modules directory and updates the package.json and package-lock.json files accordingly. These commands are fundamental for managing packages and dependencies in a Node.js environment using npm.

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How to Update NPM on WIndow

Updating npm on Windows is a simple process that ensures you have the latest features and fixes. To update, open Command Prompt or PowerShell and run npm install -g npm@latest.

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After the update completes, verify the new version with npm -v. This keeps your development environment current and secure. To update npm (Node Package Manager) on Windows, follow these steps:

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1. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell

• Command Prompt: Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.

• PowerShell: Press Win + X and select "Windows PowerShell" or "Windows Terminal" from the menu.

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2. Check the Current Version of npm

Run the command:

npm -v

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• This will display the current version of npm installed on your system.

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3. Update npm to the Latest Version

To update npm to the latest version, use the following command:

npm install -g npm@latest

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• -g stands for "global," which means this update will apply to all projects on your system.

• npm@latest specifies that you want to install the latest version of npm.

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4. Verify the Update

After the update completes, check the new version of npm by running:

npm -v

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• This command should now display the updated version number.

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Troubleshooting

• Permission Issues: If you encounter permission errors, you may need to run Command Prompt or PowerShell as an administrator. Right-click on the Command Prompt or PowerShell icon and select "Run as administrator," then repeat the update command.

• Reinstall npm: If the update command doesn’t work, you can reinstall npm using Node.js's installer or by using Node Version Manager (nvm) if you have it set up.

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By following these steps, you’ll ensure that npm is up-to-date, which provides access to the latest features, improvements, and security fixes.

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Alternative Method of Installing Node.js on Windows [Using Chocolatey]

Installing Node.js on Windows using Chocolatey, a popular package manager for Windows, is a convenient alternative to the traditional installer. Here’s how you can do it:

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Steps to Install Node.js Using Chocolatey

Install Chocolatey (if not already installed):

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1. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell as Administrator:

• Press Win + X and select "Windows Terminal (Admin)" or "Command Prompt (Admin)" from the menu.

• Run the Chocolatey Installation Command:

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For PowerShell, enter:

Set-ExecutionPolicy Bypass -Scope Process -Force; [System.Net.ServicePointManager]::SecurityProtocol = [System.Net.ServicePointManager]::SecurityProtocol -bor 3072; iex ((New-Object System.Net.WebClient).DownloadString('https://chocolatey.org/install.ps1'))

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For Command Prompt, enter:

@powershell -NoProfile -InputFormat None -ExecutionPolicy Bypass -Command "iex ((New-Object System.Net.WebClient).DownloadString('https://chocolatey.org/install.ps1'))" -NoProfile -Command "choco upgrade chocolatey"

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• Verify Installation: Restart the Command Prompt or PowerShell and type choco -v to check if Chocolatey is installed.

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Install Node.js Using Chocolatey:

2. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell as Administrator:

• Again, ensure you’re running the terminal with administrative privileges.

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Run the Installation Command:'

choco install nodejs-lts

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• nodejs-lts installs the Long-Term Support version of Node.js, which is recommended for most users due to its stability.

• Follow Prompts: If prompted, confirm the installation by typing Y and pressing Enter.

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3. Verify Installation:

Check Node.js Version:

node -v

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Check npm Version:

npm -v

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• These commands should display the versions of Node.js and npm, confirming a successful installation.

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Benefits of Using Chocolatey

• Simplified Management: Chocolatey makes it easier to manage software installations and updates through a single command-line interface.

• Automated Updates: You can update Node.js and other packages with a simple choco upgrade <package> command.

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Using Chocolatey streamlines the installation process and integrates Node.js management into a broader package management system, making it a powerful alternative to manual installations.

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How to Write Your First Program on Node.js?

Writing your first program in Node.js is a great way to get started with server-side JavaScript. Here’s a simple guide to help you create and run a basic Node.js program:

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Steps to Write Your First Node.js Program

1. Install Node.js

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Ensure Node.js is installed on your system. You can check this by running:

node -v

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If Node.js is not installed, follow the installation steps for your operating system.

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2. Set Up Your Project Directory

1. Create a Directory:

• Open Command Prompt or PowerShell.

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Navigate to where you want to create your project directory and run:

mkdir my-node-app
cd my-node-app

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2Initialize a Node.js Project (Optional):

• Run npm init to create a package.json file, which manages project dependencies. You can follow the prompts or use npm init -y to accept default values.

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3. Write Your First Node.js Program

1. Create a JavaScript File:

• In your project directory, create a file named app.js using a text editor or IDE.

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2. Write the Code:

Open app.js and add the following code:

// app.js
console.log('Hello, Node.js!');

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• This simple program will print "Hello, Node.js!" to the console.

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4. Run Your Program

1. Execute the File:

• In Command Prompt or PowerShell, navigate to your project directory if you aren't already there.

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Run the program using Node.js:

node app.js

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• You should see the output: Hello, Node.js! Displayed in the terminal.

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5. Explore Further

1. Add More Code:

• Experiment by adding more functionality to your program. For example, read from a file, create a web server, or perform calculations.

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2. Learn Node.js Modules:

• Explore built-in modules like fs (for file system operations) and HTTP (for creating servers) to expand your Node.js skills.

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By following these steps, you've created and executed your first Node.js program, providing a foundation to explore more complex projects and applications.

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How to Uninstall Node.js?

Uninstalling Node.js from your system can be done in a few straightforward steps, depending on your operating system. Here’s how you can remove Node.js from both Windows and macOS:

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Uninstall Node.js on Windows

1. Open the Control Panel:

• Press Win + R, type control, and press Enter to open the Control Panel.

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2. Navigate to Programs and Features:

• Go to "Programs" > "Programs and Features."

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3. Locate Node.js:

• Scroll through the list of installed programs to find "Node.js."

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4. Uninstall Node.js:

• Right-click on "Node.js" and select "Uninstall."

• Follow the prompts in the uninstallation wizard to complete the process.

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5. Remove npm and Cache (Optional):

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and run:

npm cache clean --force

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• Manually delete the npm and npm-cache folders if they are still present in your user directory (e.g., C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Roaming\).

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6. Check for Residual Files:

• Ensure there are no leftover Node.js files in directories like C:\Program Files\nodejs or C:\Program Files (x86)\nodejs. Delete these folders if they exist.

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Advantages

Uninstalling Node.js might be necessary for various reasons, such as resolving conflicts, upgrading versions, or freeing up disk space. Here are some advantages and reasons for uninstalling Node.js:

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Advantages of Uninstalling Node.js

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1. Resolve Conflicts

• Version Issues: Uninstalling can help resolve conflicts between different versions of Node.js or npm, especially if you need to install a different version for compatibility with other software or projects.

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2. Upgrade to a New Version

• Fresh Start: Removing the old version ensures a clean installation of the latest version of Node.js and npm, reducing potential issues from leftover configurations or corrupted files.

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3. Free Up Disk Space

• System Optimization: Node.js and its related files can take up considerable disk space. Uninstalling it frees up space, which can be particularly useful on systems with limited storage.

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4. Fix Corrupted Installations

• Clean Installation: If Node.js was not installed properly or became corrupted, uninstalling it can help clear out problematic files, making way for a fresh and correct installation.

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5. Remove Unnecessary Software

• System Maintenance: If you no longer use Node.js or it was installed by mistake, removing it helps maintain a cleaner and more organised system.

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6. Compliance and Security

• Remove Vulnerabilities: Uninstalling old or unused versions can help avoid security vulnerabilities associated with outdated software.

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7. Troubleshooting

• Resolve Issues: Uninstalling and reinstalling Node.js can resolve issues related to the software that might not be fixed through other troubleshooting methods.

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By understanding these advantages, you can make an informed decision about whether to uninstall Node.js and how to manage your development environment effectively.

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Conclusion

Installing Node.js and npm is a crucial step for JavaScript developers looking to build and manage server-side applications efficiently. By following the installation process—whether using the official installer, Chocolatey on Windows, or a package manager on macOS—you ensure that both Node.js and npm are properly set up on your system.

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This setup provides you with a powerful runtime environment for executing JavaScript and a robust package manager for handling dependencies. With Node.js and npm installed, you're equipped to start developing applications, manage project dependencies, and leverage a vast ecosystem of libraries and tools, paving the way for efficient and effective coding practices.