How to Update Node.js Versions on Windows

by:

on Feb 04 2025

Keeping your Node.js version up to date is essential for security, performance, and access to the latest features. New releases often include bug fixes, optimizations, and improvements that can enhance your development workflow.

If you're using Windows, there are multiple ways to update Node.js, whether you prefer a simple installer, a package manager, or a version manager. In this guide, we’ll walk through different methods, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.

Looking for instructions for macOS? Click here. Need help with Linux? Click here.

By the end of this article, you’ll have the latest version of Node.js running smoothly on your system—without breaking your existing projects. Let’s get started! 🚀

Check Your Current Node.js Version

Before updating Node.js, it’s important to check which version you currently have installed.. Open a Command Prompt or PowerShell window and run:

node -v

This command will return the installed version, e.g., v22.11.0.

Understanding Node.js Release Lines: LTS vs. Current

Node.js follows a predictable release schedule with two main tracks:

LTS (Long-Term Support): Recommended for most users, especially for production environments. LTS versions receive security updates and bug fixes for an extended period. The LTS version at the moment is v22.
Current: Includes the latest features and improvements but may introduce breaking changes. It's ideal for developers who want early access to new capabilities. The current version at the moment and until April 2025, is v23.

To determine whether your installed version is still actively maintained, visit the Node.js release schedule.

Method 1: Using the Node.js Installer (Recommended for Beginners)

One of the easiest ways to update Node.js on Windows is by using the official Node.js installer.

Steps:

Download the Latest Version:
- Go to the official Node.js website.
- Choose either the LTS (Long-Term Support) version for stability or the Current version for the latest features.
- Click the Windows Installer (.msi) download link.
Run the Installer:
- Double-click the downloaded .msi file.
- Follow the installation wizard. It will detect and upgrade your existing Node.js installation.
Verify the Update:
- Once installed, reopen Command Prompt or PowerShell and run:
  node -v
- Ensure it displays the updated version.

Method 2: Using Node Version Manager for Windows (nvm-windows)

For developers who frequently switch between Node.js versions, nvm-windows (Node Version Manager for Windows) is a more flexible solution.

Installing nvm-windows:

Uninstall Existing Node.js (optional):
- Open Add or Remove Programs in Windows.
- Find Node.js, click Uninstall, and follow the steps.
Install nvm-windows:
- Download the installer from the nvm-windows GitHub releases page.
- Run the .exe file and follow the setup instructions.
Verify Installation:
- Open a new Command Prompt and run:
  nvm -v
- If installed correctly, it will return the version of nvm-windows.

Updating Node.js Using nvm-windows:

Once nvm-windows is installed, you can easily manage multiple Node.js versions.

List Available Versions:
nvm list available
This command shows the latest Node.js versions available for installation.
Install a New Version:
nvm install v22.11.0``
(Replace v22.11.0 with the latest stable version.)
Use the New Version or switch to a specific version:
nvm use <version>`` (Replace <version> with the version you installed)
To Install the latest version:
```
nvm install latest
nvm use latest
```
To install the latest LTS version:
```
nvm install lts
nvm use lts
```
Verify the Update:
node -v
Set a default version: nvm alias default <version>

Method 3: Updating via Chocolatey (For Power Users)

Chocolatey is a package manager for Windows that allows you to install and manage software using the command line.

Installing Chocolatey:

If you don’t have Chocolatey installed, open PowerShell as an administrator and run:

Set-ExecutionPolicy Bypass -Scope Process -Force; [System.Net.ServicePointManager]::SecurityProtocol = [System.Net.ServicePointManager]::SecurityProtocol -bor 3072; iex ((New-Object System.Net.WebClient).DownloadString('[https://community.chocolatey.org/install.ps1](https://community.chocolatey.org/install.ps1)'))

Updating Node.js Using Chocolatey:

Once Chocolatey is installed, you can update Node.js with a single command:

choco upgrade nodejs

This command downloads and installs the latest stable version of Node.js. To verify the installation, run:

node -v

Method 4: Using Winget (Windows Package Manager)

Winget is a built-in package manager in Windows 10 and 11 that allows you to update software from the command line.

Updating Node.js with Winget:

Open Command Prompt or PowerShell as an administrator.
Run the following command to update Node.js:
winget upgrade --id OpenJS.NodeJS -e --source winget
Verify the update:
node -v

Updating npm Separately

When updating Node.js, npm is usually updated automatically. However, if you need to update npm separately, run:

npm install -g npm

Then, check the npm version:

npm -v

Choosing the Best Update Method

Updating Node.js on Windows is essential for maintaining security, performance, and compatibility with modern JavaScript features. You can update it using different methods:

Node.js Installer – Easiest for beginners
nvm-windows – Best for managing multiple versions
Chocolatey – Ideal for power users
Winget – Simple and built into Windows

Choose the method that best fits your workflow and enjoy the latest features of Node.js! If you're managing multiple projects, nvm-windows is a fantastic choice, while Chocolatey and Winget are great for quick updates.

For developers and organizations seeking enhanced security, performance monitoring, and reliability, N|Solid is the best solution. N|Solid is an enterprise-grade platform built on Node.js, offering real-time insights, vulnerability scanning, and advanced diagnostics to ensure your applications run securely and efficiently. With features like built-in CVE monitoring and proactive alerts, N|Solid helps teams stay ahead of security risks, even as the Node.js ecosystem evolves. It’s an invaluable tool for teams navigating the challenges of upgrading and maintaining Node.js applications.

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