How to Install Node.js and npm on Ubuntu 22.04

Introduction:

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to install Node.js and npm on your Ubuntu 22.04 system. Node.js is a popular runtime environment that allows you to run JavaScript on the server-side, while npm (Node Package Manager) is a package manager that simplifies the installation and management of JavaScript packages and libraries. Whether you’re a developer looking to work with JavaScript-based applications or a system administrator preparing your server, this guide will walk you through the installation process step by step.

Chapter 1: Why Install Node.js and npm?

Node.js and npm are essential tools for developers and system administrators alike. Here’s why you should consider installing them on your Ubuntu 22.04 system:

• Development Environment: Node.js allows you to build scalable and efficient server-side applications using JavaScript, a language familiar to many developers.
• npm Package Manager: npm simplifies the process of installing and managing third-party libraries and packages for your Node.js projects.
• Latest Features: Installing Node.js and npm ensures you have access to the latest features and improvements for JavaScript development.
• Community Support: Node.js and npm have a large and active community, providing valuable resources, packages, and support.
• SEO Tip: Include keywords like “Install Node.js and npm,” “Node.js development,” and “npm package manager” to optimize for search engines.

Chapter 2: Prerequisites

Before you start installing Node.js and npm, ensure that you have the following prerequisites in place:

• An Ubuntu 22.04 system with a user account that has sudo privileges.
• A stable internet connection to download packages.
• Basic knowledge of working with the Linux command line.

Having these prerequisites ready will make the installation process smoother.

Chapter 3: Installing Node.js and npm via Package Manager

The easiest way to install Node.js and npm on Ubuntu 22.04 is by using the default package manager, apt. Open a terminal and run the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install nodejs npm

This will update the package list and install both Node.js and npm. After installation, you can verify the versions:

node -v
npm -v

This should display the installed Node.js and npm versions. You now have Node.js and npm ready for use.

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Chapter 4: Verifying Node.js and npm Installation

To verify that Node.js and npm are correctly installed, you can create a simple JavaScript file and run it. Here’s how:

1. Create a file named “hello.js” using a text editor of your choice:

nano hello.js

2. In the “hello.js” file, add the following code:

console.log("Hello, Node.js and npm!");

3. Save the file and exit the text editor.
4. Run the script using Node.js:

node hello.js

If you see the message “Hello, Node.js and npm!” in the terminal, your installation is successful.

Chapter 5: Installing Node.js and npm Using Node Version Manager (nvm)

While the package manager installation method is straightforward, you may need to manage multiple Node.js versions for different projects. Node Version Manager (nvm) is a tool that allows you to switch between different Node.js versions with ease. Here’s how to install Node.js and npm using nvm:

1. Install nvm using curl:

curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.1/install.sh | bash

2. Close and reopen your terminal or run:

source ~/.bashrc

3. Install the latest LTS version of Node.js using nvm:

nvm install --lts

4. Set the LTS version as the default:

nvm alias default <LTS_version>

Replace <LTS_version> with the actual LTS version number, e.g., “lts/fermium.”

Chapter 6: Managing Node.js Versions with nvm

With nvm installed, you can easily manage multiple Node.js versions. Here are some useful commands:

• List installed Node.js versions:

nvm ls

• Switch to a specific Node.js version:

nvm use <version>

Replace <version> with the desired Node.js version.

• Set a default Node.js version:

nvm alias default <version>

Replace <version> with the desired Node.js version.

• Install a specific Node.js version:

nvm install <version>

Replace <version> with the desired Node.js version.

Using nvm gives you greater flexibility in managing Node.js versions for different projects.

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Chapter 7: Conclusion

In conclusion, you’ve successfully installed Node.js and npm on your Ubuntu 22.04 system. Whether you chose the package manager installation or opted for Node Version Manager (nvm), you now have the tools you need for JavaScript development and package management.

Node.js and npm provide a powerful ecosystem for building and managing applications, and their active community ensures continuous improvement and support. As you embark on your development journey, explore the vast world of Node.js packages and libraries available through npm to enhance your projects.

Remember to keep your Node.js and npm versions up to date to benefit from the latest features and security updates. Happy coding with Node.js and npm on your Ubuntu 22.04 system!