How To Tell If Node.js Is Installed Or Not

Method 1: Using Command Line (Recommended)

The easiest way to check if Node.js is installed is through the command line.

For Windows:

1. Open Command Prompt (cmd) or PowerShell.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:
   node -v
3. If Node.js is installed, it will return a version number, e.g., v18.17.1.
4. If you see an error like ‘node’ is not recognized as an internal or external command, Node.js is not installed.

For macOS and Linux:

1. Open the Terminal.
2. Run the following command:
   node -v
3. If Node.js is installed, you will see the version number displayed.
4. If not installed, you will receive a command not found error.

Method 2: Checking via npm (Node Package Manager)

If you have Node.js installed, npm (Node Package Manager) is usually installed along with it.

1. Open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux).
2. Run the command:
   npm -v
3. If installed, it will return a version number.
4. If not installed, you may see an error message.

Method 3: Checking via System Environment Variables (Windows Only)

1. Open Run by pressing Win + R.
2. Type sysdm.cpl and press Enter.
3. Go to the Advanced tab and click on Environment Variables.
4. Under System Variables, look for NODE_PATH or NODE_HOME. If present, Node.js is installed.

What to Do If Node.js Is Not Installed?

If you do not have Node.js installed, you can download and install it from the official website: 👉 Download Node.js

After installation, repeat the above steps to verify it is installed correctly.

Also Read:

Node JS Multer