To install NVM on Windows 10, use nvm-windows, a separate project from the Mac and Linux version of nvm. First uninstall any existing Node.js from Settings > Apps. Then download nvm-setup.exe from the nvm-windows GitHub releases page (github.com/coreybutler/nvm-windows/releases), run it, and open a new PowerShell or Command Prompt window as administrator. Run nvm install lts and then nvm use with the version number it installed.
Step 1: Remove existing Node.js
- Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
- Find Node.js, click it, and choose Uninstall.
- Delete leftover folders if they exist: C:\Program Files\nodejs, and npm and npm-cache in %AppData%.
Skipping this step can cause conflicts where Windows keeps using the old Node.js.
Step 2: Install nvm-windows
- Go to the nvm-windows releases page on GitHub.
- Under the latest release, download nvm-setup.exe.
- Run the installer and accept the defaults for the nvm folder and the Node.js symlink folder.
- When it finishes, close any open terminals.
Step 3: Install and use Node.js
- Right-click Start and open Windows PowerShell (Admin).
- Check nvm is installed:
nvm version - Install the current long-term support version:
nvm install lts - Switch to it:
nvm use 22(use the version number that was installed). - Confirm:
node -vandnpm -v
Useful nvm commands
| Command | What it does |
|---|---|
nvm list |
Shows installed versions (* marks the active one) |
nvm list available |
Shows versions you can install |
nvm install 20.18.0 |
Installs a specific version |
nvm use 20.18.0 |
Switches to a version |
nvm uninstall 18.20.4 |
Removes a version |
nvm current |
Shows the active version |
Troubleshooting
- “nvm is not recognized”: Close and reopen your terminal, or restart the PC so the PATH updates.
- “exit status 1: Access is denied” on nvm use: Run the terminal as administrator. nvm-windows creates a symlink, which needs admin rights (unless Developer Mode is on).
- node -v shows the wrong version: An old Node.js install is still in your PATH. Uninstall it and remove C:\Program Files\nodejs if it’s not the nvm symlink.
- Global packages missing after switching: Each Node version has its own global packages. Reinstall them with
npm install -gafter switching.
Alternatives to nvm-windows
- fnm (Fast Node Manager): Cross-platform and fast. Install with
winget install Schniz.fnm. - Volta: Pins Node versions per project automatically.
- WSL: If you develop in WSL, install the original nvm inside Linux instead.
Frequently asked questions
Is nvm-windows the same as nvm?
No. They’re separate projects with similar commands. The original nvm only runs on macOS, Linux, and WSL.
Does nvm work on Windows 11?
Yes. The steps are the same.
Does nvm-windows support .nvmrc files?
Not in the same way as the original nvm. Read the version from the file and run nvm use with it, or use fnm or Volta for automatic switching.
How do I uninstall nvm-windows?
Uninstall NVM for Windows from Settings > Apps, then delete the nvm folder in %AppData% if it remains.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.