Why and How to Change Node Version

Node. Js? Similar familiar? Yes, we believe you have heard it before. It is a well-loved JavaScript runtime.

Since it’s open-source, Node.js often gets updates, such as new features, bug fixes, and security patches. However, here is the catch: different projects might need different Node.js versions. Developers also use it to build fast and scalable web apps. 

This is because of dependencies and compatibility issues. So, knowing how to switch Node.js versions is super important for smooth development. Developers often switch between Node.js versions to work on different projects and test features or stay updated with the safest version. That’s where a handy tool like NVM (Node Version Manager) comes in.

Key Takeaways

• NVM simplifies node.js version management, enabling effortless installation, switching, and setting default node.js versions.
• Multiple node.js versions are crucial for working with diverse projects and ensuring compatibility.
• NVM enhances development workflows by streamlining version management, eliminating manual installations, and preventing version conflicts.
• Project-specific node.js versions can be managed using a. nvmrc file, ensuring each project utilizes the correct environment.
• Outsourcing software development requires a team proficient in node.js version control, ensuring smooth project execution and compatibility.
  

What Is NVM?

NVM stands for Node Version Manager. It is a command-line tool that makes managing Node.js versions easy. Think of it like npm or Yarn, which manage packages for Node.js. However, instead of packages, NVM focuses on managing Node.js versions.

Think about running a home entertainment system. Your TV, speakers, and streaming device all work together but need compatible software updates to function properly. If your TV gets an update that doesn’t work with your speakers, the sound might cut out, ruining movie night.

This is what developers face when projects rely on different Node.js versions. Compatibility issues can break features or slow progress. That’s where NVM (Node Version Manager) comes to the rescue. It’s like a universal remote for your development environment, allowing you to switch Node.js versions effortlessly.

For instance, a developer working on a fitness app may need an older Node.js version for one project while using the latest version for a new feature. NVM ensures each project runs smoothly without manual installs or conflicts. Just like syncing your devices for a seamless experience, NVM keeps development hassle-free and efficient.

With NVM, you can install, update, and switch between Node.js versions with simple commands. It is like having a remote control for your Node.js setup, making development faster and easier. There are numerous advantages of NVM.

• Simplicity: NVM simplifies the process of switching between Node.js versions, eliminating the need for manual system environment variable modifications.
• Isolation: NVM allows you to install multiple Node.js versions simultaneously, each running in isolation with its own set of global npm packages. This prevents version conflicts and ensures that your projects use the correct dependencies.
• Flexibility: NVM provides a straightforward way to switch between Node.js versions, making it easier to manage projects with varying requirements.

Benefits of Using NVM to Change Node Version

NVM helps development teams maintain multiple versions while working on Nodejs web applications, making the workflow smooth and handling projects efficiently.

Different Versions of Node.js: 

NVM allows the installation of several Node.js versions on one machine, switching between them when it is needed for a project.

Seamless Switching: 

NVM supports a simple command-line interface to switch seamlessly between Node.js versions.

Avoids Manual Installation: 

Without NVM, Node.js version changes require manual uninstallation and then installation. NVM does this automatically for developers, saving them a heck of a lot of time and effort in doing so.

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Keeps You Free from Virtual Machines or Dual Booting: 

NVM saves you from using virtual machines or dual boot to work with different Node.js versions. You can operate all of them in one operating system.

Installing NVM

NVM installation is straightforward for both Mac and Linux users.

1. Launch a terminal window: Open Terminal in macOS or your favorite terminal emulator in Linux.
2. To download the installation script for NVM, use either curl or wget to get the script from the NVM GitHub repository:

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

or

wget -qO- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.7/install.sh | bash

3. Install NVM using the installation script: This command will download and execute the script for installing NVM on your system.

Verify the installation: Close and reopen your terminal, then run the command command -v nvm. The output should be “nvm,” indicating that NVM is installed correctly.

For Windows users: NVM does not officially support Windows. However, a separate version called “nvm-windows” provides similar functionality. You can also use Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) to run the standard NVM within a Linux-like environment on your Windows machine.

Installing and Managing Node.js Versions with NVM

After installing NVM, you can start installing and managing different Node.js versions.

Install the Latest Version: To install the latest stable release of Node.js, use the command:

nvm install node

Install a Specific Version: To install a particular Node.js version, use the command followed by the desired version number:

nvm install 14.15.1

List Available Versions: To view a list of all Node.js versions available for installation, use:

nvm ls-remote

List Installed Versions: To see all Node.js versions installed on your system, use the command:

nvm ls

Change Node Version Using NVM

• Switching Between Versions: To change the Node version to a specific installed version, use the nvm use command followed by the version number:
• nvm use 14.15.1
• Setting a Default Version: To set a default Node.js version that automatically activates in each new terminal session, use nvm alias default followed by the version number:
• nvm alias default 14.15.1
  

Change Node Version for Specific Projects

You can create a file called. nvmrc and specify different Node.js versions for different projects.

1. Create a new file called `.nvmrc` in the root of your project.
2. Mention, within this file, the Node.js version that you want to use for this project. For example, 14.15.1.
3. Then, while in the terminal in the project directory, NVM will automatically detect the presence of the `.nvmrc` file and use the version of Node.js that is specified.

This feature is very handy and easy to use when one works with plenty of projects requiring different versions of Node.js, ensuring each of them uses the right environment.

Change Node Version When Outsourcing Software Development

When outsourcing software development, especially for web development services involving NodeJS for web development, it’s crucial to ensure the development team understands the importance of version control. Choose a team that can:

• Work with your required Node.js versions: Whether you need support for legacy systems or the latest features, your outsourcing software development team should be able to work with your specified Node.js versions.
• Enforce universal coding standards: This ensures code quality, readability, and maintainability across the project.
• Prevent compatibility issues: This involves using a .nvmrc file, regular testing, and addressing any version-related conflicts promptly.

Conclusion 

Choosing a team proficient in using NVM to manage different Node.js versions is essential for a smooth and successful outsourcing software development experience, especially for projects utilizing React Native for app development, which often requires specific Node.js versions.
At Linkitsoft, we make managing Node.js versions simple and efficient. 

We use tools like NVM to ensure your software development runs smoothly. Whether you’re building apps with React Native or working on other projects, our team handles version control and compatibility with ease. We focus on creating workflows that fit your needs perfectly.

By using. Nvm files and smart practices, we avoid version problems. This helps keep coding clean and ensures top performance for your development work. Our goal is to make your experience hassle-free and productive.

When you work with Linkitsoft, you choose a team that values quality and your satisfaction. We build scalable solutions that meet your goals. Want to improve your software development process? Contact us today to see how we can help bring your ideas to life.