Node.js

by OpenJS Foundation · Developer tools

Open sourceWindowsMacLinux

JavaScript runtime for servers, tools and build scripts, with npm.

Official download from nodejs.org (opens in a new tab)

Opens nodejs.org, OpenJS Foundation's own site. No mirror, no bundle.

Overview

What is Node.js?

Node.js runs JavaScript outside the browser and ships with npm, the package manager behind most front-end tooling. Pick the LTS release unless you need the newest features.

Key features

  • npm package manager included
  • LTS releases with long support
  • Runs build tools like Vite and Next.js
  • Native ES modules

Best for

  • Front-end and full-stack development
  • Running JavaScript build tools
  • Writing small scripts and CLIs

Included in starter kits

Install

How to install Node.js

  1. 1Open the official Node.js download page on nodejs.org.
  2. 2Pick the build for your system (Windows, Mac, Linux; check x64, ARM or Apple silicon where offered).
  3. 3Run the installer and read each screen; decline anything you did not ask for.
  4. 4Keep it updated from the app's own updater or your package manager.

Install from the command line

  • Windows · winget

    winget install --id OpenJS.NodeJS.LTS -e --source winget

Package IDs checked against the public winget, Homebrew and Flathub repositories on 1 Nov 2026. Build a script for several apps.

Safety

Download Node.js safely

  • Check the domain

    The real download lives on nodejs.org. Look-alike domains and search ads are the most common trap.

  • Skip mirrors

    Download portals can wrap installers in adware or old versions. You never need them for this app.

  • Verify if you can

    If the publisher lists a checksum, compare it with our in-browser checker before running the file.

  • Watch the installer

    Untick extras, browser changes or trials you did not ask for.

Open the checksum checker

Alternatives

Node.js alternatives

Other developer tools apps, closest platform match first.

All development

FAQ

Node.js questions

Where can I download Node.js safely?

Download Node.js only from OpenJS Foundation's official site at nodejs.org. Avoid mirror and "download portal" sites, which can bundle extra software with the installer.

Is Node.js free?

Yes. Node.js is open-source software and free to use.

Does Node.js work on Windows, Mac and Linux?

Node.js is available for Windows, Mac, Linux. Check OpenJS Foundation's download page for exact system requirements and whether your processor (x64, ARM or Apple silicon) is supported.

Can I install Node.js from the command line?

Yes, with winget on Windows (winget install --id OpenJS.NodeJS.LTS -e). Package managers fetch the publisher's files and make updates easy.

What are good alternatives to Node.js?

See the alternatives section on this page and the full developer tools list on AltFTool, which shows each app's licence and platforms side by side.