Setting Up Node.js Development Environment

Setting up your Node.js development environment is the first step toward becoming a full-stack JavaScript developer. In this article, you’ll learn how to install Node.js, configure your project, and run your first application.

Table of Contents

1. What is Node.js?
2. Why Use Node.js?
3. Installing Node.js
4. Verifying Installation
5. Initializing a Project with npm
6. Running a Simple Node.js App
7. Installing Dependencies
8. Conclusion

1. What is Node.js?

Node.js is a JavaScript runtime built on Chrome’s V8 engine that allows you to run JavaScript outside the browser. It uses a non-blocking, event-driven model, making it lightweight and efficient for I/O-heavy applications like APIs and real-time services.

2. Why Use Node.js?

• Fast & Scalable: Perfect for high-performance applications.
• JavaScript Everywhere: Use JS for both frontend and backend.
• Large Ecosystem: Thanks to npm (Node Package Manager).
• Cross-Platform: Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.

3. Installing Node.js

Windows/macOS

1. Go to: https://nodejs.org
2. Download the LTS version.
3. Run the installer and follow the instructions.

Linux (Debian/Ubuntu)

sudo apt update
sudo apt install nodejs npm

4. Verifying Installation

After installation, open your terminal and run:

node -v
npm -v

If both commands return version numbers, you’re good to go!

5. Initializing a Project with npm

Step 1: Create a project folder

mkdir my-node-app
cd my-node-app

Step 2: Initialize with npm

npm init -y

This creates a package.json file with default values.

6. Running a Simple Node.js App

Create a file named app.js and paste the following code:

const http = require('http');

const server = http.createServer((req, res) => {
  res.statusCode = 200;
  res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'text/plain');
  res.end('Hello, Node.js!');
});

server.listen(3000, 'localhost', () => {
  console.log('Server running at http://localhost:3000/');
});

Run it using:

node app.js

Now, open your browser and go to http://localhost:3000/.

7. Installing Dependencies

Install any package using:

npm install <package-name>

Example: installing express

npm install express

Add dev dependencies (like testing tools):

npm install --save-dev <package-name>

To remove a package:

npm uninstall <package-name>

Conclusion

You’ve now set up your first Node.js development environment! From installing Node and npm to creating your first app, you’re ready to start building server-side applications using JavaScript.

Next, we’ll explore how to build routes, use Express, and connect to databases.