Is it possible to run multiple versions of Node.js on your system?
Node.js usage examples
Node.js has revolutionized the way web applications are developed by allowing developers to use JavaScript on both the client and server . This open-source, cross-platform platform makes it easy to create efficient and highly scalable web applications, making it indispensable for developers
Plus, with the ability to run the same programming language on both ends, you'll be able to be more productive and make your projects feel more cohesive. Want to learn more about the options this software offers you and how to get the most out of it? Then just keep reading!
node js what is it
What is Node.js?
Node.js is a JavaScript runtime built on top of Chrome's V8 engine, allowing it to run outside of browsers. This makes it a highly recommended tool for developing server applications, command-line tools, and server-side scripts.
Additionally, Node.js handles input/output operations asynchronously, allowing multiple connections to be managed at the same time without blocking the main thread of execution. This capability makes it perfect for real-time applications that require consistent performance and the highest efficiency, such as e-commerce platforms, real-time dashboards, and collaborative applications.
What is the difference between Node.js and JavaScript?
Although JavaScript is the programming language used in both Node.js and browsers, there are differences between running it in Node.js and in a browser.
In browsers, JavaScript is used to manipulate web elements and perform client-side interactions.
Node.js allows you to run JavaScript on the server . This includes access to file systems, handling network connections, and the ability to use JavaScript modules that are not available in the browser .
Additionally, Node.js offers full control over the versions of netherland business email list the runtime environment used, allowing developers to use the most modern features of JavaScript without worrying about backward compatibility with browsers.
By the way, no, JavaScript and Java are not the same, find out what Java is and what it is used for !
Installing Node.js
Installing Node.js is a simple process that is also adaptable to different operating systems. This process ensures that both Node.js and npm, its package manager, are ready to use, and we'll explain how to follow it depending on the OS you're using!
How to install Node.js on Windows
Download the Node.js installer from its official website.
Run the downloaded file and follow the instructions of the installation wizard.
Accept the license terms and choose where to install Node.js.
Decide which components to install and confirm the installation.
Verify that the installation was successful by running 'node -v' and 'npm -v' at the command prompt.
How to install Node.js on macOS
Download the installer (.pkg) from the official Node.js page.
Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install Node.js on Mac.
Accept the license terms and select the installation location if necessary.
Finish the installation and verify it by running 'node -v' and 'npm -v' in the terminal.
How to install Node.js on Linux
There may be some differences depending on the distribution you are using.
For example, to install Node.js on Ubuntu , you can use the package manager with 'sudo apt install nodejs npm'.
Then, test the installation with 'node -v' and 'npm -v', and you'll be up and running and ready to go!
Is Node.js free?
Node.js is completely free and open source . This allows developers from Latin America and the rest of the world to contribute and continuously improve its ecosystem. In addition, its open source nature fosters an active community that develops and maintains a large number of npm packages, which further enriches the capabilities of Node.js.
Now, let's be clear, Node.js is not a framework!
Updating and managing Node.js versions
Updating Node.js to the latest available version is essential if you want to take advantage of its performance improvements, new features, and security fixes. As developers, you can update Node.js using version managers such as 'nvm' (Node Version Manager) for Linux and macOS, and 'nvm-windows' for Windows systems.
Additionally, these tools allow you to not only upgrade to the latest version, but also switch between different installed versions as needed . This is useful, for example, when a project depends on a specific version of Node.js, or when you want to evaluate new features available in newer versions without compromising production environments.
How to know which version of Node.js you are using?
To check which version of Node.js you have installed, simply open your terminal and type the command 'node -v'. This will return the current version of Node.js that your system is running, letting you know if you need to upgrade or if you're working with the one you want.
Is it possible to run multiple versions of Node.js on your system?
Yes, it is possible to run multiple versions of Node.js on the same system using tools like 'nvm' for Unix-based systems and 'nvm-windows' for Windows.
How to install an older version of Node.js? Using these tools, you can install multiple versions of Node.js and switch between them as needed, which is especially useful in development and testing environments where different projects may require different versions of Node.js.
