How Do I Completely Uninstall Node Js  And Reinstall From Beginning Mac Os X

Node.js is a powerful runtime that allows you to run JavaScript on the server side. However, there might be situations where you need to uninstall Node.js completely from your macOS system and start fresh. Whether you’re facing issues or want to ensure a clean installation, this guide will walk you through the steps to uninstall Node.js and then reinstall it from the beginning. Let’s dive in!

Uninstalling Node.js from macOS

Before reinstalling Node.js, it’s important to ensure that all traces of the previous installation are removed. Here’s how you can completely uninstall Node.js from your macOS system:

  1. Remove Global Packages:
  • Open your terminal.
  • Run the following command to list all globally installed packages:
    npm list -g --depth=0
  • For each package listed, run:
    npm uninstall -g package-name
  1. Remove Node.js and npm:
  • Run the following commands to uninstall Node.js and npm:
    sudo rm -rf /usr/local/{lib/node{,/.npm,_modules},bin,share/man}/{npm*,node*,man1/node*}
  1. Remove Node.js Installation Files:
  • Run:
    “`
    sudo rm -rf /usr/local/lib/node*
    sudo rm -rf /usr/local/include/node*
    sudo rm -rf /usr/local/bin/node*
    sudo rm -rf /usr/local/share/man/man1/node*
  1. Remove Node.js from Homebrew (if installed via Homebrew):
  • If you installed Node.js using Homebrew, run:
    brew uninstall node

Reinstalling Node.js on macOS

After uninstalling Node.js, you can proceed with a fresh installation:

  1. Download and Install NVM (Node Version Manager):
  • NVM allows you to manage multiple Node.js versions. Install NVM by running:
    curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.38.0/install.sh | bash
  1. Close and Reopen Terminal:
  • Close your terminal and open a new one to make sure NVM is available.
  1. Install the Latest Version of Node.js:
  • Run the following command to install the latest stable version of Node.js:
    nvm install node
  1. Verify Installation:
  • Run:
    node -v npm -v

Best Practices for Uninstalling and Reinstalling Node.js

  • Backup Your Data: If you have important projects, back them up before proceeding.
  • Use NVM: Using NVM gives you greater control over Node.js versions and makes managing them simpler.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I uninstall and reinstall Node.js?
There could be issues with your existing installation, or you might want a clean slate for development.

Will uninstalling Node.js remove my projects?
No, uninstalling Node.js won’t affect your projects. It only removes the Node.js runtime and related files.

Do I need to uninstall npm separately?
No, when you uninstall Node.js, npm (Node Package Manager) is removed along with it.

Can I use a package manager like Homebrew to install Node.js?
Yes, you can use Homebrew to install Node.js, but ensure that you uninstall it properly if you want to start fresh.

Can I install specific Node.js versions with NVM?
Yes, NVM allows you to install and switch between different Node.js versions easily.

Uninstalling and reinstalling Node.js on macOS can be necessary to resolve issues or start anew. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a clean removal of Node.js and then proceed with a fresh installation using NVM. Remember that Node.js is a versatile tool, and having a clean and functional installation is crucial for smooth development experiences. Happy coding with your fresh Node.js setup!

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