Setup Node.js on Windows

Introduction

The easiest way to install Node.js on Windows is to use nvm-windows (Node Version Manager for Windows). It lets you install multiple versions and switch between them.

What You’ll Install

• Node.js — lets you run JavaScript outside the browser.

• npm (comes with Node) — for installing packages.

• (Optional but recommended) nvm-windows — manage multiple Node versions.

Option A — nvm-windows (Recommended)

1. Download nvm-setup.exe from: nvm-windows releases . Ref: https://www.freecodecamp.org/news/nvm-for-windows-how-to-download-and-install-node-version-manager-in-windows-10/. 

2. Run the installer.

3. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell and verify:

    nvm version

4. Use for the latest Long-Term Support version

   nvm install lts 
   nvm list available
   nvm use <version from available>. E.g. nvm use 22.18.0
   node -v
   npm -v
   

Notes:

• To install a Node.js version, say 22.18.0, use nvm install 22.18.0.

• Switch versions anytime with nvm use <version>.

Option B — Official Installer

1. Go to nodejs.org  and download the LTS Windows installer.

2. Run the installer (defaults are fine).

3. Verify in a new terminal:

    node -v npm -v

Create Your First Script

1. Create a file hello.js:

    console.log("Hello from Node.js!");

2. Run it:

    node hello.js

Common Issues

• Node command not found → Close and reopen your terminal.

• Switching versions doesn’t work → Run nvm use <version> again.

• Proxy issues in corporate networks → Configure npm:

   npm config set proxy http://user:pass@host:port npm config set https-proxy http://user:pass@host:port

Which Version Should You Use?

• LTS (Long-Term Support): Best for most users.

• Current: Latest features, but updates often.

Check anytime:

🎉 That’s it — you’re ready to use Node.js on Windows!