Comprehensive Guide to Setting Up Your Node.js Development Environment

Learn how to install and configure Node.js on Windows, Mac, and Linux systems. This guide covers prerequisites, step-by-step installation methods, and additional considerations for managing Node.js versions and environment variables. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced developer, this tutorial will help you get your Node.js environment up and running efficiently.

Node.js Installation Guide

Node.js is a JavaScript runtime used for server-side applications. This guide helps you install Node.js on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

Prerequisites

  • Windows: No specific requirements for modern versions.
  • Mac: macOS 10.10 (Yosemite) or later.
  • Linux: May require Ruby 1.8.6+ and GCC 4.2+ for command-line installation.

Installation Methods

Windows

  1. Visit the official Node.js website.
  2. Download the latest LTS (Long-Term Support) version installer (.msi).
  3. Double-click the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Optionally, check the box to add Node.js to your system PATH.
Verify Installation

node -v
npm -v

Mac/Linux

You can install Node.js using a graphical installer or via package managers:

Graphical Installer:

  1. Visit the official Node.js website.
  2. Download the installer for Mac (.pkg) or Linux (.tar.gz).
  3. Double-click the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.

Using Package Manager:

  • Mac (Homebrew): Open a terminal and run brew install node.
  • Linux (Linuxbrew): Follow Linuxbrew instructions and run brew install node.
Verify Installation

node -v
npm -v

Additional Considerations

  • Use nvm (Node Version Manager) for managing multiple Node.js versions.
  • Set environment variables for advanced configuration if needed.

Install Node.js

For Node.js development, you'll need:

  • Node.js
  • Node Package Manager (NPM) – included with Node.js since version 0.6.0.
  • An IDE or Text Editor

Optionally, use Homebrew (Mac) or Linuxbrew (Linux) for command-line installation:

Homebrew Command

brew install node

Note: Linux may require additional dependencies like Ruby and GCC before installing Node.js.