Node.js Linux Installation: Step-by-Step Guide

Node.js has become an essential tool for developing modern web and server applications. For Linux users, installing Node.js offers significant advantages in terms of performance and flexibility. In this guide, you will learn how to install Node.js on Linux step by step. Let's get started!

What is Node.js and Why Should You Use It on Linux?

Node.js is an open-source JavaScript runtime environment that runs on the server side. Built on Google's Chrome V8 JavaScript engine, it provides high performance with its asynchronous, event-driven architecture. Node.js is ideal for developing scalable network applications.

Linux is a widely preferred operating system in server environments. The main reasons for this include reliability, performance, and flexibility. The command-line tools and package managers offered by Linux make installing and managing Node.js much easier. Additionally, a Node.js application running on Linux typically performs better with lower resource consumption.

Understanding and Choosing Node.js Versions for Linux

Node.js offers several versions to meet different use cases. LTS (Long Term Support) versions are recommended for enterprise applications because they provide long-term support and security updates. On the other hand, developers who want to take advantage of the latest features should choose the Current version.

When selecting a Node.js version, you should consider your project's needs and stability requirements. LTS versions are typically more stable and reliable, so they should be used in production environments. However, if you want to experiment with the latest features, the Current version is a good option.

Installing Node.js via the Terminal

There are several ways to install Node.js on Linux. One of the most popular methods is to use Node Version Manager (nvm). nvm makes it easy to manage multiple Node.js versions.

1. Installing nvm:
   First, you need to install nvm. To do this, open your terminal and run the following command:
   curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.4/install.sh | bash
   After installation is complete, close and reopen your terminal to ensure nvm is correctly installed.
2. Installing Node.js:
   With nvm, you can install any version of Node.js you need. For example, to install the latest LTS version, run:
   nvm install --lts
   This command will download and install the latest LTS version of Node.js.

Verifying Node.js Installation and Running Your First App

Once the installation is complete, it’s important to verify that Node.js has been installed correctly. You can check the installed versions using the following commands:

node -v
npm -v

These commands will display the version numbers for Node.js and npm (Node Package Manager). If the installation is correct, both commands will return a version number.

To run your first Node.js application, create a file and write a simple "Hello, World!" server inside it:

echo "console.log('Hello, World!');" > app.js
node app.js

These commands will display "Hello, World!" in the terminal, indicating that Node.js is working correctly.

Common Installation Issues and Solutions

You may encounter some common issues during the Node.js installation process. Here are some of them and their solutions:

• Permission Errors: If you encounter permission errors during installation, try running the commands with sudo. However, when using nvm, sudo is not required.
• Package Manager Issues: If your package manager is outdated, you may face issues installing Node.js. Update your package manager and try again.
• Version Conflicts: If a different version of Node.js is already installed, conflicts may arise. You can switch between different versions using nvm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Node.js perform better on Linux?

Linux's efficient resource management and powerful command-line tools help Node.js applications run faster and more stable.

Do I have to use nvm?

No, using nvm is not mandatory. However, it is recommended because it makes version management easier.

How can I update npm after installing Node.js?

To update npm, run the following command in your terminal: npm install -g npm@latest.

What kinds of applications can I develop with Node.js?

With Node.js, you can develop web applications, APIs, real-time services, and much more.