Guide to Installing Node.js

In an era of ever-evolving technology, grasping and mastering modern programming tools is extremely essential, especially for those pursuing web development.Node.jsis one of today's most powerful and popular platforms, enabling you to build high-speed web applications using only JavaScript.

With the desire to accompany developers from their very first steps,VPTSwill guide you on how to download and installNode.jsin a simple, detailed, and straightforward manner, even for beginners. Let's start your programming journey with Node.js today!

▶

What is Node.js?

Node.js is an open-source platform that allows running JavaScript code server-side. Instead of only running in browsers as usual, with Node.js, you can use JavaScript to build web applications, APIs, command-line tools, and various other network systems.

Highlights of Node.js:

• Fast and lightweight: Powered by the V8 engine.

• Asynchronous processing: Highly suitable for real-time applications such as chat, games, API servers.

• Robust ecosystem: With over 1 million library packages onnpm (Node Package Manager).

• Easy to learn: For developers already familiar with JavaScript.

What is Node.js used for?

• Build web server/API server

• Create real-time applications (chat, livestreaming)

• Writing command-line tools.

• Serve as a backend for mobile/web apps

• Connect to databases (MongoDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL)

Guide to Downloading and Installing the Node.js Environment

Step 1: Access and download Node.js

Open your browser and visit the official website:https://nodejs.org

On the homepage, you will see two versions:

• Node.js v22.14.0 (LTS): This is the stable and Long Term Support (LTS) version

• Node.js v23.11.0: is a newer version that may contain many new features.

You should choose LTS to ensure stability and good compatibility.

Step 2: Install Node.js

After downloading the Node.js file, you will receive an installer file with an .msi extension.

• Double-click to open the file; the installation interface will appear as shown in the picture..

• Click the "Next" button to continue the installation process

Accept terms of use:

• After clicking"Next"in the previous step, you will be taken to page"End-User License Agreement"– these are the terms of use for Node.js software.

• Check the "I accept the terms in the License Agreement" box to agree to the terms.

• Then, click "Next" to continue.

You must accept these terms to install Node.js.

Select installation folder

• By default, Node.js will be installed in the directory:
  C:Program Filesnodejs

• If you want to change the installation directory, click "Change..." and select another location.

• If you agree with the default folder, simply click "Next" to continue.

Note:It is recommended to keep the default path to make Node.js installation and usage easy and consistent.

Custom component setup options (Custom Setup)

At this step, you can select the components you want to install alongside Node.js.

Default items that should be kept unchanged include:

• Node.js runtime: The core component to run Node.js applications.

• corepack manager: Supports managing package managers like yarn.

• npm package manager: Default package manager for Node.js

• Online documentation shortcuts: Quick links to documentation.

• Add to PATH: Add Node.js to system environment variables so it can be used anywhere in CMD.

Keep all default options, then click "Next" to continue.

Install Tools for Native Modules

At this step, you will be asked if you want to install additional tools necessary to compile native modules such as C/C++.

• If you are a beginner, you do not need to check the "Automatically install the necessary tools…" box to make the installation process faster and simpler.

• Later, if you need to compile advanced packages, you can install them manually following the included instructions.

Click "Next" to continue the installation process.

Proceed to install Node.js

After completing all the previous configuration steps, you will see the interface as shown above.

• This is the final step to get startedNode.js installation processon your computer.

• The system is ready to install Node.js with the selected settings.

Click the buttonInstallto start installation.

Note:After clicking Install, the process will take a few minutes. Please wait patiently until the “Setup completed” notification appears.

Step 3: Add Node.js to system Environment Variables

On the Windows taskbar, click the search icon and type: Edit the system environment variables

Next, after searching for "Edit the system environment variables", the System Properties window appears as shown:

From the System Properties window, select the Advanced tab, then click the Environment Variables... button as shown.

Under User variables for [User Name], locate the line named Path → Click Edit... as shown below

In the example image, the misspelled path isC:Progrm Filesnodejs→ please correct it toC:Program Filesnodejs

Then clickOKto save changes.

Step 4: Verify Node.js was installed successfully.

After completing installation and setting environment variables, openCommand Prompt(CMD) and enter the following command:

Copy

node -v

Outputting v11.10.0; if your result is different, don't worry, as upgraded versions are released each year.

Conclusion

You have now completed installing the Node.js environment on Windows. From now on, you can start building web projects, backends, or applications running JavaScript with ease!

If you encounter difficulties during installation, leave a comment or contact the technical team ofVPTSfor prompt support!

VPTS – Comprehensive Digital Infrastructure Solutions Provider

VPTS Team Contact Information