How to reinstall the Node.js on macOS

Node.js is a well-known server-side JavaScript runtime environment for building scalable and practical network applications. Real-time, data-intensive applications benefit significantly from its event-driven, non-blocking architecture. Developers can create server-side applications using the Google V8 JavaScript engine, which offers high-performance code execution. The event loop, a crucial component, increases responsiveness and speed for tasks like managing concurrent connections, static files, and databases. 

The Node.js ecosystem of modules and packages, including the npm (node package manager), provides developers access to various tools and libraries. Its versatility extends beyond web servers to API development, real-time chat apps, streaming services, and more. Overall, Node.js has transformed the way developers approach server-side programming, providing a foundation for building high-performance programs that meet the demands of today’s digital world.

The need to reinstall Node.js

In the following circumstances, Node.js may require reinstallation:

• Upgrade to a new version: When a new Node.js version is published, upgrading to the more recent version will allow us to take advantage of new features, enhancements, or bug fixes. After an upgrade, it may be necessary to reinstall.

• Corrupted installation: If the Node.js installation is damaged due to system crashes, file system issues, or other issues, unexpected errors and behaviors may appear. Reinstalling Node.js can help with some problems.

• Version switching: If there is a need to move between Node.js versions for compatibility, testing, or development purposes, we can choose to reinstall Node.js with the desired version.

Reinstallation steps

In the following section, directions are provided to reinstall Node.js.

Complete removal of the current version of Node.js

Note: All the commands provided have to be executed in the terminal. For some commands to be executed, we must enter our authentication password.

1. Check if Node.js is installed on the Mac device:

If this command doesn't return a specific version of Node.js, then we only have to follow the installation steps given in the next section.

Otherwise, follow the given commands to uninstall it.

2. Remove the executable node file.

3. Delete all Node.js modules and packages.

4. Remove the executable npm file.

After executing these steps, Node.js will be uninstalled from the Mac device.

Downloading Node.js

The following section provides directions to install Node.js.

Homebrew

For easy reinstallation of Node.js, it is preferred to use Homebrew. For macOS, Homebrew is a popular package manager. On Mac, it offers a practical way to administer, upgrade, and install various command-line utilities and software programs. Homebrew facilitates the installation of software dependencies, the construction of development environments, and the maintenance of a contemporary software stack. Therefore, download Homebrew using the following command:

Step-by-step reinstallation commands

1. Using brew, install node.

2. After installing node, link it using brew with Node.js and npm to be used through the command line. This creates a symlink to your local directory.

3. Finally, verify that Node.js has been successfully installed by the following command:

This will display the latest installed version of Node.js.

After successfully reinstalling Node.js using the steps provided above, the Mac device will be able to execute JavaScript programs.