If you’re developing with JavaScript or Node.js on a Mac, you’ll need npm, the Node Package Manager. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.

1. Install Homebrew (if you haven’t yet)

Open your terminal and run:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

2. Install Node.js (npm comes with it)

brew install node

3. Verify the installation

node -v   # Outputs the Node.js version
npm -v    # Outputs the npm version

Optional: Use nvm for Node Version Management

If you plan to work with multiple versions of Node.js, nvm (Node Version Manager) is a great tool.

1. Install nvm

curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.7/install.sh | bash

After the installation, restart your terminal or run:

source ~/.nvm/nvm.sh

2. Install Node.js using nvm

nvm install node

3. Check versions

node -v   # Outputs the Node.js version
npm -v    # Outputs the npm version

⚠️ Avoid Using sudo

Do not use sudo to install Node.js or npm globally. It can lead to permission problems and messy environments. Stick with Homebrew or nvm for a clean setup.