How to Install NPM on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 8, 2025

Are you ready to dive into modern web development but stuck wondering how to get NPM installed on your Windows 11 machine? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! NPM (Node Package Manager) is essential for managing JavaScript libraries and frameworks, and setting it up is easier than you might think.

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through how to install NPM on Windows 11, verify the installation, and troubleshoot common issues. By the end, you’ll be ready to manage Node.js packages like a pro.

What is NPM?

Before we jump into the installation process, let’s clear up what NPM is.

  • NPM stands for Node Package Manager.

  • It is used to install, update, and manage packages (libraries, frameworks, and tools) for JavaScript and Node.js projects.

  • Popular frameworks like React, Angular, and Vue rely heavily on NPM.

Why Do You Need NPM?

1. Manage Dependencies Easily

You don’t have to manually download and link every library—NPM handles it for you.

2. Access to a Vast Library

NPM hosts over a million packages for nearly every development need.

3. Automate Tasks

Use NPM scripts to run build tools, testing suites, or development servers with a single command.

4. Keep Your Projects Organized

NPM creates a package.json file that stores all dependencies in one place.

System Requirements for NPM on Windows 11

Before installing, make sure your system meets the following requirements:

  • Operating System: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)

  • Disk Space: At least 200 MB for Node.js and NPM

  • Administrator Access: Recommended for system-wide installation

  • Internet Connection: Required to download Node.js and packages

How to Install NPM on Windows 11

Here’s the simple step-by-step guide to get NPM running on your PC.

Step 1: Download Node.js Installer

NPM comes bundled with Node.js, so installing Node.js will also install NPM.

  1. Visit the official Node.js website: nodejs.org

  2. Choose the LTS (Long Term Support) version for stability.

  3. Download the Windows Installer (.msi) file.

Step 2: Run the Installer

  1. Double-click the downloaded .msi file.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions:

    • Accept the license agreement.

    • Choose the installation path (default is fine for most users).

    • Keep the default components selected.

    • Make sure “Add to PATH” is checked.

  3. Click Install and wait for the setup to finish.

Step 3: Verify Installation

To confirm Node.js and NPM are installed correctly:

  1. Open Command Prompt (press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter).

  2. Type:

    node -v

    This will show the Node.js version.

  3. Then type:

    npm -v

    This will show the NPM version.

If you see version numbers, congratulations! NPM is successfully installed.

How to Update NPM on Windows 11

NPM updates frequently, and you may want to upgrade it to the latest version.

  1. Open Command Prompt or PowerShell as administrator.

  2. Run:

    npm install -g npm

  3. Verify the update:

    npm -v

How to Install NPM Packages

Once NPM is installed, you can start adding packages to your projects.

Local Installation (Recommended)

npm install package-name

This installs the package in the node_modules folder of your project.

Global Installation

npm install -g package-name

This makes the package available system-wide.

Uninstalling NPM or Node.js

If you need to remove Node.js and NPM:

  1. Go to Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program.

  2. Select Node.js and click Uninstall.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. ‘npm’ is not recognized as an internal or external command

  • Ensure Node.js was installed with the “Add to PATH” option enabled.

  • Restart your computer after installation.

2. Permission Errors (EACCES)

  • Run Command Prompt or PowerShell as administrator.

  • Avoid installing packages globally unless necessary.

3. Conflicting Versions

  • Uninstall old versions of Node.js before installing the latest one.

Should You Use NVM Instead?

NVM (Node Version Manager) allows you to install and manage multiple versions of Node.js and NPM on the same system.

  • Recommended if you work on multiple projects requiring different Node.js versions.

  • Available as nvm-windows for Windows systems.

Best Practices for Using NPM on Windows 11

  • Always initialize your project with:

    npm init

    This creates a package.json file.

  • Use npm install to reinstall dependencies from package.json.

  • Keep your packages updated using:

    npm outdated
    npm update

  • Use npm audit to check for security vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

Installing NPM on Windows 11 is quick and easy—just install Node.js, verify the installation, and you’re ready to manage your JavaScript packages. With NPM set up, you can start building modern web applications, manage dependencies seamlessly, and take full advantage of the JavaScript ecosystem.

FAQs

1. Is NPM installed automatically with Node.js?

Yes, NPM comes bundled with Node.js by default.

2. Can I install NPM without Node.js?

No, NPM is part of the Node.js ecosystem and requires it.

3. Do I need admin rights to install NPM?

Not always, but it’s recommended for a smooth installation process.

4. How do I uninstall NPM completely?

Uninstall Node.js from your system—it will remove NPM as well.

5. Is NPM free to use?

Yes, NPM is open-source and completely free.

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