How to Update Node.js and NPM to the Latest Version (2025)

Updating Node.js and NPM to the latest version ensures the newest features, performance improvements, and security updates. This article will guide you through the steps to update Node.js and npm to the latest version on various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Different Methods to Update Node.js and NPM

To update Node and NPM to the latest versions we can use various methods like nvm (node version manager), node.js Windows installer, npm, and homebrew for macOS.

Why Update Node.js and NPM?

• Security Patches: Protect against vulnerabilities.
• Performance Boosts: Faster execution for apps and tools.
• New Features: Access modern JavaScript capabilities.
• Compatibility: Avoid errors with outdated dependencies.

Check the Installed node version

Before updating, it’s helpful to check your current Node.js version:

node -v

Method 1: Using NVM (Node Version Manager)

Step 1: Install NVM on your system, and verify nvm installation

nvm -v

Step 2: Use the following command to install and update Node to the latest version.

nvm install node

With the above command the compatible NPM version will be automatically installed (e.g. npm v10 with node v22)

Step 3: After installing run this command to use the version mentioned in above response (v22 for now).

nvm use 22 

Using NVM you can easily use any version of node if required

• Check the list of available Node.js versions in the system using the following command.

nvm list 

• To use the desired version, use the following command:

nvm use <version>

Method 2: Using the Node.js Installer (Windows and macOS)

Follow these steps to install Node.js on Windows using the Nodejs Installer.

Step 1: Download Installer by Visiting Node.js official website .

Step 2: Run Installer by Opening the downloaded installer. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

Step 3: Verify Installation

node -v

Update npm using NPM

Step 4: Use below npm command to upgrade npm to latest

npm install -g npm@latest

Step 5: Verify latest Installation update

npm -v

Method 3: Using Homebrew on macOS

Homebrew is a popular package manager for macOS that simplifies the process of managing software installations, including Node.js.

Step 1: Install Homebrew by Visiting brew.sh and follow the installation instructions.

Step 2: brew update

brew update

Step 3: Install Node.js

brew install node

Step 4: Update Node.js

brew upgrade node

Step 5: Verify latest Installation update

node -v

Also Read:

• How to install the previous version of node.js and npm?
• Difference between npm install and npm update in Node.js
• How to uninstall and update any dependencies through NPM?

Conclusion

Updating Node.js and NPM regularly ensures you have the latest features, bug fixes, and security updates. Whether you prefer using NVM, the Node.js installer, or Homebrew, these methods make it easy to stay up-to-date. Choose the method that best fits your operating system and workflow.