For most Windows users, the simplest way to install Node.js and npm is to download the Windows installer for the current LTS release from the official Node.js download page. The installer includes both tools. After setup, open a new Command Prompt and run node -v and npm -v to verify they work.
Choose an installation method
| Route | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Official Node.js Windows installer | A beginner who needs one Node.js version | Simple setup; npm notes that installer installations can cause permissions problems when installing global packages. |
| Windows version manager | Anyone whose projects require switching between Node.js versions | Offers version switching, but adds setup beyond the basic installer route. |
npm recommends using a Node.js version manager in general. Its Windows guidance lists nvm-windows and nodist as options. For one version and a straightforward first install, use the official installer; you do not need a separate npm download.
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Install Node.js and npm with the Windows installer
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Open the Node.js download page and choose the release labeled LTS. Release numbers change, so use the current listing rather than relying on an older version number.
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Select the Windows installer that matches your computer’s architecture. The available package types can vary; for example, the Node.js v22.22.0 archive lists MSI installers for x64, x86, and ARM64. That is historical package evidence, not a recommendation to install that release.
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Run the downloaded installer and follow its prompts to complete setup. The installer installs Node.js and npm together. If your organization controls software installation, follow its approval process or ask your administrator.
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Close any open Command Prompt windows, then open Command Prompt again. A fresh terminal session can pick up the updated environment.
Check whether Node.js and npm work in Command Prompt
Enter these commands separately:
node -v
npm -vEach command should print a version string. These checks confirm that Windows can find and run both commands; they do not install either tool.
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If Command Prompt says node or npm is not recognized, work through these checks:
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Close Command Prompt and open it again, then rerun the relevant version command.
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Confirm that the installer finished successfully. If it did not, run the official installer again and complete setup.
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Check the Windows
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When a version manager makes sense
Use a Windows version manager if you need to switch Node.js versions for different projects. npm’s Windows documentation lists nvm-windows and nodist. Do not assume instructions using the Unix nvm shell command work directly in Windows Command Prompt; follow the chosen Windows manager’s own installation and usage instructions.
You can use Node.js and npm without installing global packages. If you later install global packages and encounter permissions problems, npm notes that installations made with the Node.js installer can be a source of those issues; a version manager is an alternative to consider.
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