Summary  
This chapter covers how to install and verify the Node.js JavaScript runtime environment on different operating systems.

General domain of usage  
JavaScript application development

Now that we understand what Node.js is and its purpose, it's time to roll up our sleeves and get our hands on the real deal. As Node.js is a JavaScript runtime environment, installing it on your local machine is highly recommended.

## System Requirements
Before diving in, let's quickly check the system requirements to ensure your computer is ready to handle Node.js:
- **Windows**: Windows 7 or later;
- **macOS**: macOS 10.12 (Sierra) or later;
- **Linux**: A modern Linux distribution with GLIBC version 2.17 or later, along with development tools (GCC, G++, etc.) for compiling native addons.



Node.js and npm (Node Package Manager) are often installed together, as npm comes bundled with Node.js.

Note

# Installing Node.js

1. Visit the official Node.js website: [Node.js Downloads](https://nodejs.org/en/download);
2. Download the latest **LTS (Long-Term Support)** version. The LTS release is recommended for most learners because it receives long-term updates and is the version used in most tutorials and production projects;
3. Run the installer and keep the default settings during installation;
4. Once the installation is complete, open your terminal or command prompt and verify that Node.js was installed successfully:

   ```bash
   node --version
   ```
5. Verify that npm, the Node Package Manager included with Node.js, is also installed:

   ```bash
   npm --version
   ```

If both commands return version numbers, your installation is complete and you're ready to start building Node.js applications.


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Explore the Backend's crucial role and get acquainted with Node.js — a game-changing runtime environment. Uncover its advantages, learn Node.js installation, and dive into creating your first Node.js app.

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Delve into Express.js as a web application framework. You'll gain insights into why Express is a popular choice for web development, how to set up a basic Express application, create routes to handle various requests and understand middleware concepts.

Learn how to build a REST API using Node.js and Express.js, step by step. This section will walk you through creating a simplified Twitter-like app, helping you master the art of developing RESTful APIs while adding a valuable project to your portfolio.