Overview
npm (Node Package Manager) is the default package manager for Node.js. It allows developers to install, manage, and share open-source JavaScript packages that can be used in both frontend and backend projects.
npm is an essential tool in modern Web Development workflows, enabling faster development and easier dependency management.
Key Features
- Package management: Installs and manages project dependencies easily.
- Version control: Allows locking specific package versions using
package-lock.json. - Scripts: Automates repetitive tasks like builds, testing, and deployment with
npm run. - Registry: Provides access to the world’s largest collection of open-source libraries.
- Local & global installs: Supports both project-specific and system-wide installations.
Common Commands
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
npm init | Initializes a new Node.js project and creates a package.json file. |
npm install <package> | Installs a package locally to your project. |
npm install -g <package> | Installs a package globally on your system. |
npm uninstall <package> | Removes a package from your project. |
npm update | Updates all packages to their latest compatible versions. |
npm run <script> | Runs a custom script defined in package.json. |
npm list | Lists all installed packages. |
Why Use npm?
- Provides access to millions of reusable packages.
- Ensures consistent builds via
package-lock.json. - Supports custom script automation for tasks like linting, testing, and deployment.
- Integrates smoothly with tools like Webpack, Babel, and ESLint.