Managing Node versions with NVM

Managing multiple Node.js projects with different version requirements can be a challenge.

Node Version Manager (NVM) is an essential tool for developers working with Node, as it allows managing multiple Node.js versions on a single machine. This flexibility helps test applications across different Node versions without needing separate machines or complex virtual environments.

An effective solution to ensure consistent environments across all your projects is to use NVM with a .nvmrc file.

Installing NVM

Linux and macOS

Run the installation script from the NVM repo . You can use curl or wget:

curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.1/install.sh | bash

wget -qO- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.1/install.sh | bash

Installing Node versions

To install a specific Node.js version, use:

nvm install 18.15.0

You can also install the latest available version or the latest LTS (Long Term Support) version using:

nvm install node    # Latest version
nvm install --lts    # Latest LTS version

Using Node versions

Switch between installed Node versions with:

nvm use <version>

If you want to switch to Node version 18.15.0:

nvm use 18.15.0

Setting the default Node version

The sky is the limit

The terminal is a truly powerful tool. It makes your day-to-day easier and better — instead of trying to avoid it, become better at using it.

Can you think of any other tools that help with your workflow?

Send me a shout on Twitter @lauralesteves