Skip to main content

Installing Node.js and npm

For anyone looking to get started with Angular, the first important step is installing Node.js and npm. Node.js is a JavaScript runtime that allows you to run JavaScript on your server or your computer, while npm (Node Package Manager) is a package manager that comes with Node.js. npm is useful for installing libraries, packages, and applications.

In the following tutorial, we will guide you through the process of installing Node.js and npm.

Prerequisites​

  • A general understanding of your computer's operating system.
  • Basic familiarity with using the command line.

Step 1: Download Node.js and npm​

Visit the official Node.js website at https://nodejs.org/en/download/. Here, you'll find download links for Node.js and npm for different operating systems. Choose the package that matches your operating system.

For most users, the LTS (Long Term Support) version is recommended. The LTS version is more stable and receives updates for a longer period.

Step 2: Install Node.js and npm​

Once the installer is downloaded, open it and follow the prompts. The installation process is straightforward, and it will automatically install npm as well.

For Windows users:

  • Run the .msi installer you downloaded.
  • Follow the prompts in the installer.
  • Accept the license agreement.
  • Click the NEXT button a couple of times.
  • Finally, click on the install button.

For macOS users:

  • Open the .pkg file you downloaded.
  • This will open a Node.js installer. Click continue on the introduction screen.
  • Agree to the software license agreement.
  • Install Node.js. You will need to enter your password.
  • You will see a screen saying the installation was successful.

For Linux users, you may use a package manager like apt for Ubuntu to install Node.js. Here is a sample command.

sudo apt-get install nodejs

Step 3: Verify Installation​

After installation, you should verify if Node.js and npm are installed correctly. Open a new terminal window and type the following commands:

For Node.js:

node -v

For npm:

npm -v

If Node.js and npm are installed correctly, you should see the versions you installed printed to the console.

Conclusion​

That's it! You have successfully installed Node.js and npm on your system. These are the basic tools you’ll need to start developing with Angular. In the next steps of your learning journey, you might need to install other tools, such as a code editor, but for now, you are good to go. Happy coding!