Complete Guide: How to Install NVM (Node Version Manager) on Windows
Install NVM on Windows easily by following this complete step-by-step guide for beginners. NVM (Node Version Manager) allows you to manage multiple Node.js versions on a single Windows system without uninstalling or reinstalling Node.js again and again.
I’ve also explained this entire process visually in my YouTube video (linked below), so you can follow along easily.
🎥 Video Tutorial (Step-by-Step)
👉 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9lAKTuwY4Vk
🔹 What is NVM?
NVM (Node Version Manager) allows you to:
- Install multiple Node.js versions on one system
- Switch between Node versions easily
- Avoid compatibility issues between projects
It is especially useful for developers working with legacy projects or testing applications on different Node.js versions.
🔹 Why Use NVM on Windows?
- No need to uninstall/reinstall Node.js repeatedly
- Easy version switching using simple commands
- Cleaner and more professional development workflow
✅ Prerequisites
Before starting:
- Windows 10 or Windows 11
- Internet connection
- Basic knowledge of using Terminal / Command Prompt
🧩 Step-by-Step: How to Install NVM on Windows
Step 1: Search for NVM Installation Guide
- Open your browser
- Search for: nvm install windows
- Open the article from freecodecamp.org
Step 2: Go to the Download Section
- Scroll down the FreeCodeCamp article
- Find the section titled “How to Install NVM in Windows”
- Click on “Click to download now”
This will redirect you to the official GitHub repository.
Step 3: Open GitHub Repository
- You will land on the GitHub README page
- Scroll down and review the Overview section
- Click on the Download Now button
Step 4: Download NVM Setup File
- You will be redirected to the GitHub Releases page
- Scroll down to the Assets section
- Click on nvm-setup.exe
The installer file will start downloading.
Step 5: Install NVM on Windows
- Double-click on nvm-setup.exe
- Windows installer will open
- Accept the License Agreement
- Choose the installation path (or keep default)
- Click Install
- Wait for the installation to complete
- Click Finish when done
You will now see the successful installation screen.
🖥️ Step 6: Verify NVM Installation
- Open Command Prompt or Terminal
- Run the following command:
nvm -v
- If NVM is installed correctly, it will show the installed NVM version
✅ This confirms that NVM is successfully installed on your system.
🚀 What’s Next?
Now that NVM is installed, you can:
- Install Node.js versions using
nvm install - Switch versions using
nvm use - List installed versions using
nvm list
I’ll be covering these topics in upcoming tutorials.
📌 Final Words
Installing NVM on Windows is simple when you follow the correct steps. This tool will save you time and make Node.js development much more flexible and professional.
👉 Don’t forget to watch the full YouTube video for a visual walkthrough:
🔗 YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/9lAKTuwY4Vk
If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with other developers and subscribe to the channel for more tutorials.
Happy Coding! 🚀