Node.js is a JavaScript runtime (built on the V8 engine) used to build servers, APIs, and command-line tools.
What it’s used for
- Back-end (APIs, web servers).
- Scripts and automation (CLI).
- Build tooling (very common in front-end ecosystems).
Common issues
- Incompatible Node version (project requires Node 18/20/22, etc.).
- Dependency errors (npm/yarn/pnpm, lockfiles, cache).
- Install failures: permissions, corporate proxies, slow registries.
Best practices
- Use LTS when possible.
- Standardize via
.nvmrc/Volta/ASDF. - Clear cache and reinstall dependencies when needed.
Status
- Node website/downloads status is available at status.nodejs.org.