Mateen Kiani
Published on Sun Jul 06 2025·4 min read
Keeping Node.js up to date ensures you get the latest features, performance improvements, and security patches. On Windows, you have a couple of straightforward options: the official installer or a version manager called nvm-windows. Which approach fits your workflow best?
Below, we’ll cover both methods step by step, show you how to verify a successful update, and share tips to resolve common hiccups. Let’s get you running the latest Node.js on your Windows machine in no time.
Every few months, the Node.js team rolls out new versions with faster performance, brand-new APIs, and critical security fixes. Staying current:
If you skip updates for too long, you might hit compatibility issues with modern frameworks or libraries. A quick update keeps your development smooth and secure.
Before jumping in, see which version you have installed. Open PowerShell or Command Prompt and run:
node -vnpm -v
You should see something like v14.17.0
and an npm version alongside it. Jot these down so you can confirm the update succeeded later.
Tip: If you get an error saying
node
is not recognized, Node.js might not be installed or on your PATH. You’ll need to install it fresh.
This method works well if you only need one Node.js version on your machine.
.msi
installer for the LTS or Current version..msi
and follow the prompts.
node -vnpm -v
You should see the new version numbers. If everything looks good, you’re done.
For developers juggling multiple projects with different Node.js requirements, nvm-windows is a lifesaver.
C:\Program Files\nvm
and symlink node
and npm
to that folder.nvm install 16.13.0nvm use 16.13.0
node -v
nvm ls
to list installed versions and nvm use <version>
.After updating, do a quick sanity check:
node -v # Should match the version you installednpm -v # NPM should also update alongside Node
Next, test running a simple script:
// hello.jsconsole.log('Node is up to date!');
node hello.js
If you see Node is up to date!
, you’re all set.
node -v
still shows the old version:
C:\Program Files
.powershell
npm install -g npm
Tip: After updating, you might need to reinstall global packages like Yarn. Check out our guide on installing Yarn using npm for a quick refresher.
With Node.js updated, you can explore the latest features:
import
and export
without flags.node --test
to launch the new test harness.If you start writing HTTP-based services, see our guide on making HTTP requests in Node.js for common patterns.
Updating Node.js on Windows is quick once you know your options. The installer method is great for a single version, while nvm-windows gives you the flexibility to switch versions as projects demand. Always verify the new version, clean up old paths, and keep an eye on your global packages.
Staying on the latest Node.js release means you benefit from performance gains, new language features, and security patches. Now you’re ready to tackle modern Node.js development with confidence!