Why Node.js is Essential for JavaScript Development
Node.js is a runtime environment that allows you to run JavaScript code outside of a web browser. This is crucial for modern JavaScript development for several reasons:
- Enables server-side JavaScript development
- Provides access to a vast ecosystem of packages through npm (Node Package Manager)
- Required for running modern JavaScript build tools and development environments
- Allows for creating full-stack JavaScript applications
How to Install Node.js
You can download Node.js from the official website: https://nodejs.org
There are two versions available:
- LTS (Long Term Support): Recommended for most users, especially for production environments
- Current: Latest features but may be less stable
Installation Steps:
- Visit nodejs.org
- Download the appropriate version for your operating system
- Run the installer and follow the installation wizard
- Verify installation by opening a terminal and running:
- For instructions on opening a terminal click here
After installation, you'll have access to both the Node.js runtime and npm (Node Package Manager), which are essential tools for modern JavaScript development.
NOTE: Your version will most likely be newer than the screenshot above.
