Installing NPM and Node.js on Windows & macOS: Beginner’s Guide

Installing Node.js on Windows and Mac with NPM.

Installing the NPM is an essential step for anyone working with JavaScript, especially when using Node.js for their application development. NPM(Node Package Manager) is a command-line tool that helps developers install, manage, and share reusable code packages. It is strongly integrated with Node.js and comes with a bundle of Node.js installations by default.

When you are installing Node.js on Windows or macOS, adding NPM is essential. This setup allows for simple management of project dependencies. Install third-party libraries and streamline your development workflow with simple commands.

Within this guide, we will walk you through the complete process of installing Node.js and NPM. It also included the different installation processes such as using the official Node.js installer, NVM, and Homebrew.

You will also learn about how to verify your installation, check Node.js versions, and node package manager install manager using NPM. Learning about these steps will make it easier for you to maintain the technical foundation for modern backend development services, making it easier to build scalable web applications.

What is NPM and Why Do You Need It?

NPM stands for the Node Package Manager, which is a default manager tool that comes with Node.js. It is used to install, manage, and update the packages or libraries that are essential for building JavaScript applications. These are in the range of small modules to full-featured frameworks.

When developers make use of Node.js to make the application, they often rely on third-party applications for routing, database access, authentication, and more.

NPM provides a centralized registry that hosts the packages, allowing you to quickly install while making use of simple terminal commands. For example, running npm install express, you can install the Express.js framework in seconds, along with the different dependencies.

NPM is important for modern JavaScript development and essential for backend development services.

Whether setting up a local development environment or deploying enterprise-level applications, understanding how NPM works is essential to maintain the consistency and productivity in your codebase.

What is Node.js, and how does it relate to NPM?

Node.js is a free-to-download, cross-platform JavaScript runtime that enables developers to run JavaScript code on the server. Unlike standard JavaScript, Node.js lets you create scalable and more advanced apps.

It uses the V8 engine, which Google develops explicitly, and the same has been used by Chrome to compile JavaScript directly, resulting in maintaining high performance.

Because of its unrestricted, reactive architecture, Node.js is ideal for applications that handle a large volume of operations. This allows you to streamline the use of the application along with the real-time services and APIs. This is one of the top choices for companies that want fast, scalable, and effective backend services. For further details, you can also connect with the Node.js development company to learn about the specific information.

Does Node.js Install NPM Automatically?

Yes, when you install Node.js, NPM is installed by default. You don't need to install or download the NPM separately. This ensures that you can start working with the Node.js packages immediately without any further setup processes.

Once installed, you can easily confirm that NPM is available by running the npm -v command in your command line. If a version number appears, the installation was successful, and you’re ready to start managing packages using NPM.

This simplifies the process for developers and ensures consistency across different working environments.

Node.js and the JavaScript Ecosystem

Node.js plays an essential role in maintaining the broader JavaScript ecosystem. It allows JavaScript to be used not only for front-end developers but also for full-stack and backend developers. With this, developers can have access to a massive ecosystem of libraries and modules.

Together, Node.js and NPM form the foundation for developers to maintain their workflow and power everything from microservices to large-scale enterprise platforms. This combination has made Node.js an essential component in many companies’ backend development services, especially those aiming for speed, flexibility, and scalability.

Prerequisites Before Installing NPM

Before installing Node.js and NPM, ensure that your system meets the following requirements for a smooth and error-free setup.

• Supported Operating System

• • • Node.js supports Windows 10 or macOS with the latest stable versions.
    • If you are using an outdated OS, you may face issues like compatibility with the device and errors in installation.
    • Always make sure you download it from the official website, which is suitable for your OS. 

• Administrator or Root Access

• • • During installation, ensure you have access to the admin privilege to install software and modify the system variables.
    • On Windows, right-click the installer and choose "Run as administrator."
    • On macOS, you may be prompted to enter your system password.

• Internet Connectivity

• • • Make sure to have stable internet connectivity to download Node.js and access the NPM registry to install packages.
    • Use tools like NVM or Homebrew to fetch the online resources during the setup.

• Basic Command Line Knowledge

• • • You should be comfortable using terminals, Command Prompt, PowerShell on Windows, and Terminal on macOS.
    • Run simple commands like checking version (node -v, npm -v) and installing packages.

• Checking Node Version and Removing Existing Node.js Versions (If Any)

• • • Check Node package version is old or if NPM was installed previously, then remove it before reinstallation.
    • A conflicted version may cause errors when installing packages and a mismatch with the required version.

• Install Optional Build Tools (for Native Modules)

• • Windows users may install Visual Studio Build Tools.
  • macOS users can install Xcode Command Line Tools using xcode-select-- install.

WINDOWS SECTION

Installing Node.js and NPM on Windows

Installing Node.js on Windows is an easy process. As NPM comes with a bundle of Node.js, installing it gets you both.

Here is the step-by-step guide for you:

Go to the official website and download the Windows installer. Two options will appear in front of you:

• LTS(Long-term support): Recommended for users specifically involved in production processes.
• Current: This is for the LRES, but they may not be stable.

Check the node version that best fits your needs. The LTS version is usually the safest bet.

Once the download is completed:

• Launch the .msi installer file.
• Accept the option for the license agreement.
• Choose the default installation path.
• Keep the settings default, especially the box that says “Install NPM package manager.” Ensure it’s checked.

After the installation is complete:

• Open the command box (press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter).
• Run the following command: node -v, npm -v
• These will print the installed version of Node.js and NPM. If you see version numbers, both tools are installed correctly.

The installer usually sets this automatically, but you still need to verify:

• Right-click This PC, then select Properties, Advanced System Settings, and Environment Variables.
• Under the system variables, check the path variable contains a Node.js entry like: C:\Program Files\nodejs\

Set Up Environment Variables on Windows

Correctly configuring environment variables allows you to ensure NPM is working properly across your system. Without the proper setup, errors might occur when running Node.js commands in the terminal.

Set NODE_HOME and PATH

Follow these steps to manually set up the NODE_HOME and update your PATH variable:

• Find Node.js Installation Path

• Typically:C:\Program Files\nodejs
• You can also run the node in the Command Prompt to locate it.

• Open Environment Variables

• Follow the same process, right click This PC → Properties → Advanced System Settings → Environment Variables.

• Set NODE_HOME Variable

• Under System variables, click New.
• Variable name: NODE_HOME
• Variable value: C:\Program Files\nodejs(or your path)

• Edit PATH Variable

• Make sure you find and select the Path variable under System variables.
• Click Edit → New and add:

• Apply and Restart

• Click OK to save and close all dialogs.
• To ensure that the modifications take effect, restart Command Prompt or your system.

Fix “Node is Not Recognized” Errors

If you get the error like 'node', it is not recognized as an internal or external command.

Try the following:

• Recheck Node.js Installation Path:

The path set in NODE_HOME must be accurate. If Node was installed in a custom directory, update the variable accordingly.

• Ensure PATH Variable Includes Node.js: Both %NODE_HOME% and %NODE_HOME%\bin should be added to your system’s Path
• Restart Command Prompt or Computer: Environment variable changes won’t take effect until the terminal is restarted.
• Reinstall Node.js (if needed): If nothing else works, uninstall Node.js, restart your system, and reinstall it from the official Node.js download page.

MAC SECTION

Installing Node.js on macOS and NPM

There are multiple ways to install Node.js for mac, but if you are a beginner, you should use the method which is the official .pkg installer. Advanced users may also use Homebrew or NVM to gain access to better version management.

• Visit the official site and download the macOS installer (.pkg)
• From the two versions, LTS and current, ensure you use the LTS version if you do not want access to specific features.

• Double-click on the .pkg file to launch the Node.js Setup Wizard.
• MocOS will ask you to enter your system password to approve the installation procedure if you follow the on-screen directions.
• The installer places Node.js binaries in /usr/local/bin and other necessary files in system directories.

• Open the terminal from your application folder or using Spotlight.
• Check Node JS version Mac, simply open your terminal and run: node -v, npm -v
• If both return version numbers, the installation is complete.

• Sometimes the NPM version bundled with Node.js isn’t the latest. You can manually update it with install npm for mac.
• This will fetch the latest NPM version.

When using it for macOS, you may encounter permission errors when installing it with NPM. To fix this, you can:

• Change the ownership of the global node_modules directory: “sudo chown -R $(whoami) /usr/local/lib/node_modules”

Method 2 – Install via Homebrew

Homebrew is a popular package manager for macOS. If you already use Homebrew, this method is clean, fast, and keeps your system organized.

• If Homebrew is not installed, open Terminal and run:

• Follow the prompts to complete the installation.

• Once Homebrew is ready, install Node.js by running: brew install node
• This will allow the installation NPM for Mac and Node.js in one command.

• After installation is complete, it is always good to verify the version. Here is how to check if Node is installed: node -v, npm -v
• You should see both version numbers printed in the terminal.

• To keep your Node.js and macOS install NPM versions up to date in the future: brew update, brew upgrade, and e.
• This ensures you use the latest stable versions with security patches and new features.

Node & NPM Installation on macOS Using NVM

NVM is a version manager that allows you to install and switch between several versions of Node.js. The mac OS install NVM approach is particularly useful for developers working on multiple projects with different Node requirements.

• Open a terminal and run this script:

“curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.7/install.sh | bash”

• This script adds NVM to your shell profile (e.g. , .bashrc, .zshrc , or .bash_profile).
• Restart your Terminal or run: source ~/.nvm/nvm.sh after installation.
• Verify NVM was installed: nvm-- version

• Install Node.js after accurately setting up NVM: nvm install node.
• This program installs the most recent stable version of Node.js and NPM.
• To install a specific version (e.g., Node 18): nvm install 18

• You can tell NVM to always use a specific Node.js version:
• Or for a specific version: nvm alias default 18

• Run the following, which will allow you to be sure that everything is working properly: node -v,npm -v
• This confirms that your macOS, NPM, and Node.js are working through NVM.

Using Node Package Manager(npm), install Node.js

After you've installed Node.js and NPM, you may start installing packages to increase your functionality. These packages are maintained via the Node Package Manager (NPM).

Install a Package Locally vs Globally

NPM allows you to install packages locally or globally:

• Local Installation:npm install <package-name>
  • Installed in the project's node_modules/ directory.
  • Use packages tailored to the needs of your project.
  • Example: npm install axios
• Global Installation:npm install -g <package-name>
  • Wth the terminal, install the accessible system.
  • Typically use tools like nodemon , eslint, or TypeScript.
  • Example: npm install -g nodemon

You can verify a global install location with: npm list -g-- depth=0

Common NPM Commands

NPM provides several essential commands to manage packages:

• Install a Package: npm install <package-name>
• Update a Package: npm update <package-name>
• Uninstall a Package: npm uninstall <package-name>
• Install All Project Dependencies (from package.json): npm install
• Install a Specific Version: npm install <package-name>@<version>

Example: npm install express@4.18.2

Check Installed Package Versions

To confirm the version of a package:

• Local version: npm list <package-name>
• Global version: npm list -g <package-name>
• To view a project's installed packages, use: npm list
• Access globally installed packages: npm list -g-- depth=0

You can also check the version of Node.js and NPM themselves: node -v, npm -v

Troubleshooting Installation Issues

Even after installation, if you face issues like a lack of configuration and some errors that prevent Node.js or NPM from working properly on your device.

Then you can make use of these steps to resolve them appropriately:

Node/NPM Not Recognized in Terminal

If running node or npm gives you an error like node is not recognized or command not found. Then you try these fixes:

• For Windows:

  Ensure the installation path is clear (e.g., C:\Program Files\nodejs) and correctly set. Make sure that you restart the terminal after making the necessary modifications.

• For macOS: If using NVM or Homebrew, confirm that they are initialized in your shell configuration, like .bashrc , .zshrc, or .bash_profile, with lines like: export NVM_DIR="$HOME/.nvm"

[ -s "$NVM_DIR/nvm.sh" ] && \. "$NVM_DIR/nvm.sh"

Permission Errors on macOS

When installing global packages with NPM, you may see errors like: EACCES: permission denied, access '/usr/local/lib/node_modules'

• Avoid using sudo unnecessarily.
• Made sure dictionary ownership is changed: sudo chown -R $(whoami) /usr/local/lib/node_modules
• Use NVM for safer and user-level setup of Node.js and NPM.

PATH Configuration Issues

Incorrect or missing PATH variables can disrupt NPM and Node.js commands:

• On Windows:
  • Ensure that %NODE_HOME% and %NODE_HOME%\bin are added to the System PATH.
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• On macOS:
  • Confirm that /opt/homebrew/bin or /usr/local/bin is added to your $PATH.

You can also check your current PATH using echo $PATH  # macOS and echo %PATH%  # Windows.

Updating Node.js or NPM Separately

Node.js and NPM are attached, but they can also be updated individually if required.

• For updating NPM, only use npm install -g npm@latest
• For Updating Node.js:
  • With NVM (macOS/Linux), make use of the command: nvm install node-- reinstall-packages-from=node
  • Utilizing Windows Installer: Visit the official website, download the installer, execute it, and then update Node.js and NPM simultaneously.

Key Pointers and Best Practices To Consider When Installing

Whether you are setting up Node.js for professional or personal use, keep these best practices in mind to ensure a smooth development experience.

• Make sure you make use of only the official Node.js website or trusted tools like Homebrew or NVM for installation.
• NVM is ideal for effortlessly handling various Node.js versions on macOS.
• Avoid using sudo with npm install -g instead, fix permissions, or use NVM.
• Always check the installation with node-v and npm-v after setup.
• Update NPM with npm install -g npm@latest to stay current with features and fixes.
• On Windows, ensure NODE_HOME and the Node.js path are correctly set in Environment Variables.
• Install packages locally unless a global install is necessary (e.g., CLI tools).
• Restart your terminal after any environment configuration changes to apply them properly.
• Use tools like npx to run packages without having them installed globally.

Best Way to Install Node.js and NPM for Your OS

Want to get started with Node.js and NPM simply? Then you should follow these procedures for your specific operating system. Whether you install using Node installer, Homebrew, or NVM, make sure that it is configured properly with access to variables and system paths. Once the system is set up, you can easily manage, install Node packages, build scalable apps, and explore the rich JavaScript ecosystem.

If you want to take your project to the next level, consider collaborating with a renowned Node.js development company that offers experienced backend development services. From performance optimization to scalable architecture, expert support can help you achieve your development objectives faster.

Are you ready to build something extraordinary with Node.js? Let us make this happen.