Node.js Installation

Node.js is a powerful tool that lets you run JavaScript outside the browser. It’s open-source, works across platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux), and is mostly used for building server-side apps, automation tools, and scalable backend services.

You don’t need to be an expert to get started. Just follow these simple steps:

How to Install Node.js

1. Download the installer

Visit the official Node.js website at https://nodejs.org and download the recommended version for your operating system.

2. Run the installer

Once downloaded, double-click the file and follow the on-screen instructions. Just keep clicking Next until the installation finishes.

3. Verify installation

After it’s done, open your terminal or command prompt and type:

				
					node -v

If it returns a version number like v20.11.1, congratulations! Node.js is successfully installed on your machine.

Running JavaScript in Visual Studio Code

Now that Node.js is ready, let’s see how to write and run a JavaScript script in Visual Studio Code (VS Code):

Steps to Run JS in VS Code

1. Install VS Code
If you haven’t already, download it from https://code.visualstudio.com and install it just like any regular app.

2. Create a new JavaScript file
Launch VS Code, go to File > New File, and save it with a .js extension, like app.js.

3. Write your code
Start typing your JavaScript. For example:

				
					console.log("Hello from Arshyan!");

4. Run the code
Open the terminal inside VS Code (Ctrl + ~ on Windows or View > Terminal), and run your file using:

				
					node app.js

You should see the output right in your terminal.

You can now run and test any JavaScript code using Node.js and VS Code. It’s a fast and reliable way to practice without even opening a browser.