How to download and install latest version of Node JS on windows 2026

Node.js is a powerful JavaScript runtime that allows developers to run JavaScript outside the browser. It is widely used for building web servers, APIs, real-time applications, and command-line tools. This article provides a step-by-step guide to downloading and installing the latest version of Node.js on Windows in 2026.

What Is Node.js?

Node.js is an open-source, cross-platform runtime environment built on Google Chrome’s V8 JavaScript engine. It allows JavaScript to be used for backend development and is known for:

• High performance
• Non-blocking, event-driven architecture
• Large ecosystem via npm (Node Package Manager)

System Requirements

Before installing Node.js, ensure your system meets the following requirements:

• Operating System: Windows 10, Windows 11, or newer (2026 editions)
• Architecture: 64-bit (x64) recommended
• Disk Space: At least 200 MB free
• Internet Connection: Required for download

Step 1: Visit the Official Node.js Website

1. Open any web browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox).
2. Go to the official Node.js website: https://nodejs.org

⚠️ Always download Node.js from the official website to avoid malware or modified installers.

Step 2: Choose the Correct Node.js Version

On the Node.js homepage, you will typically see two versions:

1. LTS (Long-Term Support) – Recommended

• Stable and tested
• Ideal for production and most users
• Receives long-term security updates

2. Current

• Includes the latest features
• Best for experimenting or learning new functionality
• May change more frequently

👉 For most users in 2026, choose the LTS version.

Click “Download LTS” for Windows.

Step 3: Run the Node.js Installer

1. Once the .msi file finishes downloading, locate it in your Downloads folder.
2. Double-click the installer to start setup.
3. Click Next on the welcome screen.

Step 4: Accept the License Agreement

• Read the license terms.
• Check “I accept the terms in the License Agreement”.
• Click Next.

Step 5: Choose Installation Location

• Default location is usually: C:\Program Files\nodejs\
• It is recommended to keep the default.
• Click Next.

Step 6: Select Components

Ensure the following components are selected:

• Node.js runtime
• npm package manager
• Add to PATH (important)
• Online documentation shortcuts (optional)

Click Next.

Step 7: Optional Tools (Recommended)

You may see an option to install additional tools such as:

• Python
• Visual Studio Build Tools

These are useful for compiling native npm modules.

✔️ Recommended for developers
❌ Can be skipped if you are a beginner

Click Next, then Install.

Step 8: Complete Installation

• Wait for the installation to finish.
• Click Finish to exit the setup wizard.

Node.js is now installed on your system 🎉

Step 9: Verify Node.js Installation

1. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell.
2. Run the following commands:

node -v

This displays the installed Node.js version.

npm -v

This confirms npm is installed correctly.

If both commands return version numbers, installation was successful.

Step 10: Update Node.js (Optional in 2026)

To keep Node.js updated easily, you can use Node Version Manager (nvm) for Windows.

Benefits of nvm:

• Install multiple Node.js versions
• Switch versions easily
• Update Node.js safely

Recommended for advanced users and professionals.

Common Installation Issues and Fixes

1. 'node' is not recognized as an internal or external command

Solution:

• Restart your computer
• Ensure Node.js was added to PATH during installation

2. Permission Errors with npm

Solution:

• Run Command Prompt as Administrator
• Or configure npm global directory

Conclusion

Installing Node.js on Windows in 2026 is a simple and straightforward process when done correctly. By downloading Node.js from the official website and choosing the LTS version, you ensure stability, performance, and long-term support for your applications.

With Node.js installed, you are now ready to build modern web applications, APIs, and tools using JavaScript.