Node.js Upgrade Guide for Ubuntu | Generated by AI
Upgrading Node.js on Ubuntu can be done in several ways. The most reliable and recommended methods are using nvm (Node Version Manager) or the NodeSource repository. Below are step-by-step instructions for both methods.
Method 1: Using NVM (Recommended)
NVM allows you to install and manage multiple Node.js versions easily.
1. Install NVM
Open a terminal and run:
curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.7/install.sh | bash
Then, reload your shell:
source ~/.bashrc
or
source ~/.zshrc
(depending on your shell)
2. Install the Latest Node.js Version
List available versions:
nvm ls-remote
Install the latest LTS version (recommended for most users):
nvm install --lts
Or install a specific version (e.g., 20.x):
nvm install 20
3. Set Default Version
nvm alias default 20
4. Verify
node -v
npm -v
Method 2: Using NodeSource Repository
This method installs Node.js system-wide.
1. Remove Old Node.js (if installed via apt)
sudo apt remove --purge nodejs npm
sudo apt autoremove
2. Add NodeSource Repository
For Node.js 20.x (LTS as of August 2025):
curl -fsSL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_20.x | sudo -E bash -
For Node.js 22.x (if available):
curl -fsSL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_22.x | sudo -E bash -
3. Install Node.js
sudo apt install -y nodejs
4. Verify
node -v
npm -v
Method 3: Using Ubuntu Default Repository (Not Recommended)
Ubuntu’s default repository often contains outdated Node.js versions. If you still want to use it:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install nodejs npm
But this is not recommended for development, as the version is usually old.
Which Method Should You Use?
- Use NVM if you want to switch between Node.js versions easily or need the latest features.
- Use NodeSource if you want a system-wide, stable installation.