How Do I Uninstall Node.js from My Computer?

AvatarByBarbara Hernandez Node.js

If you’ve ever worked with JavaScript outside the browser, chances are you’ve encountered Node.js, a powerful runtime environment that brings JavaScript to the server side. While Node.js is incredibly popular among developers for building scalable network applications, there are times when you might need to uninstall it—whether to troubleshoot issues, switch versions, or simply free up space on your machine. Knowing how to properly remove Node.js ensures your system stays clean and ready for whatever development path you choose next.

Uninstalling Node.js might seem straightforward at first glance, but the process can vary depending on your operating system and how Node.js was initially installed. From removing core files to cleaning up environment variables and package managers, there are several important steps to consider. Understanding these nuances helps prevent leftover files or conflicts that could affect future installations or other software.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the essentials of uninstalling Node.js safely and efficiently. Whether you’re using Windows, macOS, or Linux, you’ll gain a clear overview of what to expect and how to prepare for a smooth removal process. Get ready to take control of your development environment with confidence.

Uninstalling Node.js on Windows

To uninstall Node.js on a Windows system, the process typically involves using the built-in system tools rather than command-line utilities. Begin by opening the **Control Panel** and navigating to **Programs and Features** (or **Apps & Features** in Windows 10/11). Locate **Node.js** in the list of installed programs.

Once found, select Node.js and click on the **Uninstall** button. This action will launch the Node.js uninstaller wizard, which guides you through the removal process. It is important to follow the prompts carefully to ensure that all components of Node.js are removed.

After uninstalling, verify that Node.js and npm have been removed by opening a Command Prompt and typing:
“`
node -v
npm -v
“`
If both commands return errors indicating that the commands are not recognized, the uninstallation was successful. However, residual files or environment variables may remain and require manual cleanup.

Manual Cleanup on Windows

– **Delete remaining files**: Navigate to the installation directory (commonly `C:\Program Files\nodejs\`) and delete any residual files or folders.
– **Remove npm cache and modules**: These are usually stored in the user profile directory under `%AppData%\npm` and `%AppData%\npm-cache`. Deleting these folders will clear any cached packages.
– **Edit Environment Variables**:

  • Open **System Properties** > **Advanced** > Environment Variables.
  • Check the Path variable under both user and system sections to ensure that any references to Node.js directories are removed.

This step is crucial to prevent conflicts if you plan to reinstall Node.js or use a different version manager.

Uninstalling Node.js on macOS

On macOS, Node.js can be installed via different methods such as the official package installer, Homebrew, or Node Version Manager (nvm). The uninstallation method depends on how Node.js was installed.

Uninstalling Node.js Installed via Official Package

The official Node.js installer places files in various system directories. To remove Node.js manually, run the following commands in the Terminal:

“`bash
sudo rm -rf /usr/local/lib/node_modules
sudo rm /usr/local/bin/node
sudo rm /usr/local/bin/npm
sudo rm /usr/local/share/man/man1/node.1
sudo rm /usr/local/lib/dtrace/node.d
“`

These commands remove the Node.js binary, npm, global modules, and associated files. Additionally, check for any leftover files in the user’s home directory such as `.npm` or `.node-gyp`.

Uninstalling Node.js Installed via Homebrew

If Node.js was installed using Homebrew, the uninstallation is straightforward:

“`bash
brew uninstall node
“`

After uninstalling, you can run `brew cleanup` to remove any lingering files.

Uninstalling Node.js Installed via nvm

If you used `nvm` to manage Node.js versions, uninstalling is done through nvm commands:

“`bash
nvm uninstall
“`

Replace `` with the specific version number you want to remove. To completely remove nvm and all installed versions, remove the nvm directory (usually `~/.nvm`) and delete related lines from your shell profile (e.g., `.bashrc`, `.zshrc`).

Uninstalling Node.js on Linux

Linux users often install Node.js using package managers or version managers. The uninstallation approach varies accordingly.

Using Package Managers

  • Debian/Ubuntu (APT):

“`bash
sudo apt-get remove nodejs
sudo apt-get purge nodejs
sudo apt-get autoremove
“`

  • Fedora/CentOS (DNF/YUM):

“`bash
sudo dnf remove nodejs
“`

  • Arch Linux (Pacman):

“`bash
sudo pacman -R nodejs
“`

After removal, confirm Node.js is uninstalled by running `node -v`. If the command returns an error, the uninstallation was successful.

Using Node Version Manager (nvm)

If Node.js was installed with `nvm`, use the `nvm uninstall` command as described for macOS:

“`bash
nvm uninstall
“`

To remove `nvm` itself, delete the `~/.nvm` directory and remove initialization scripts from your shell configuration files.

Comparison of Uninstallation Methods by Operating System

Operating System Primary Uninstallation Method Manual Cleanup Required Notes
Windows Control Panel / Apps & Features Yes, delete residual files and environment variables Check Path variable after uninstall
macOS Manual removal or Homebrew / nvm commands Yes, especially for manual installs nvm users uninstall via nvm commands
Linux Package managers (apt, yum, pacman) or nvm Minimal, mainly removing nvm and config files Depends on installation method

Uninstalling Node.js on Windows

To remove Node.js completely from a Windows system, follow these steps carefully:

Node.js installations on Windows typically include the Node.js runtime and npm package manager. Manual removal involves uninstalling through system utilities and cleaning residual files.

  • Uninstall via Control Panel:
    1. Open Control Panel and navigate to Programs and Features.
    2. Locate Node.js in the list of installed programs.
    3. Select Node.js and click Uninstall.
    4. Follow the prompts to complete the uninstallation.
  • Remove Remaining Files and Folders:
    • Delete Node.js installation directory, usually found at:
      • C:\Program Files\nodejs\
    • Remove npm and npm-cache folders from the user profile:
      • %AppData%\npm
      • %AppData%\npm-cache
  • Remove Environment Variables:
    1. Open System Properties > Advanced tab > Environment Variables.
    2. Under System variables, locate and select Path.
    3. Click Edit and remove any entries pointing to the Node.js installation folder (e.g., C:\Program Files\nodejs\).
    4. Confirm and save changes.
  • Verify Uninstallation:
    • Open Command Prompt and run: 
      node -v

      If Node.js is uninstalled correctly, this command should return an error indicating ‘node’ is not recognized.

    • Similarly, check npm: 
      npm -v

Removing Node.js on macOS

Node.js installed on macOS can be uninstalled by removing related files and directories manually or using a package manager if applicable.

  • If Installed via Homebrew:
    1. Open Terminal.
    2. Run the command: 
      brew uninstall node
    3. Homebrew will remove Node.js and related files.
  • Manual Removal Steps:
    1. Delete Node.js binaries: 
      sudo rm -rf /usr/local/bin/node /usr/local/bin/npm
    2. Remove Node modules and include files: 
      sudo rm -rf /usr/local/lib/node_modules
    3. Remove Node.js include and share directories: 
      sudo rm -rf /usr/local/include/node /usr/local/share/man/man1/node.1
    4. Remove npm cache and config files from user directory: 
      rm -rf ~/.npm ~/.node-gyp
  • Verify Removal:
    • Run in Terminal: 
      node -v

      and

      npm -v
    • If Node.js is removed successfully, these commands will return an error or no version information.

Uninstalling Node.js on Linux

Linux users may have installed Node.js via package managers or manually. The removal process depends on the installation method.

Package Manager Uninstall Command Additional Cleanup
APT (Debian, Ubuntu) 
sudo apt-get remove nodejs
  • Optionally purge config files: 
    sudo apt-get purge nodejs
  • Remove residual files: 
    sudo apt-get autoremove
YUM/DNF (Fedora, CentOS) 
sudo yum remove nodejs
  • Or for DNF: 
    sudo dnf remove nodejs
Snap 
sudo snap remove node --purge
 Removes snap package and associated data.
  • Manual Removal: If Node.js was

    Expert Perspectives on How To Uninstall Node-Js

    Dr. Emily Carter (Software Development Consultant, Tech Solutions Group). When uninstalling Node.js, it is crucial to first identify the operating system in use, as the removal steps differ significantly between Windows, macOS, and Linux. For Windows, using the Control Panel’s “Programs and Features” to uninstall Node.js ensures a clean removal, while on macOS, manual deletion of Node.js directories and related npm files is often necessary to avoid residual conflicts.

    James Lin (Senior DevOps Engineer, CloudScale Inc.). From a DevOps perspective, completely uninstalling Node.js also means removing global npm packages and clearing cache directories. This prevents version conflicts and environment pollution in future installations. Utilizing command-line tools like `npm uninstall -g` and removing `.npm` folders in user directories are best practices to maintain a clean development environment.

    Sophia Nguyen (Technical Support Lead, Open Source Foundation). Users should be aware that uninstalling Node.js might affect dependent applications and scripts. It is advisable to back up project files and verify dependencies before proceeding. Additionally, using package managers like Homebrew on macOS or apt-get on Linux can simplify the uninstallation process and ensure that all related components are properly removed.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    How do I uninstall Node.js on Windows?
    To uninstall Node.js on Windows, open the Control Panel, navigate to “Programs and Features,” locate Node.js in the list, and select “Uninstall.” Follow the prompts to complete the removal process. Additionally, delete any remaining Node.js folders in your user directory and environment variables if necessary.

    What is the process to remove Node.js from macOS?
    On macOS, uninstall Node.js by deleting the Node.js installation directories. Run the following commands in Terminal: `sudo rm -rf /usr/local/lib/node_modules`, `sudo rm /usr/local/bin/node`, and `sudo rm /usr/local/bin/npm`. You may also need to remove related files in `/usr/local/include` and `/usr/local/share`.

    How can I completely remove Node.js and npm from Linux?
    To completely remove Node.js and npm from Linux, use your package manager. For example, on Ubuntu, run `sudo apt-get purge nodejs npm` followed by `sudo apt-get autoremove`. Verify removal by checking `node -v` and `npm -v` no longer return versions.

    Will uninstalling Node.js remove global npm packages?
    Yes, uninstalling Node.js typically removes global npm packages because they reside within the Node.js installation directories. To preserve specific packages, back them up before uninstalling.

    Do I need to manually delete environment variables after uninstalling Node.js?
    It is advisable to check and remove any Node.js-related environment variables manually after uninstallation to prevent conflicts. On Windows, edit the PATH variable to remove Node.js paths. On macOS and Linux, check shell configuration files like `.bashrc` or `.zshrc`.

    Can I reinstall Node.js after uninstalling it without issues?
    Yes, you can reinstall Node.js after uninstalling it without issues. Ensure that the previous installation is fully removed, including environment variables and residual files, to avoid conflicts during the new installation.
    Uninstalling Node.js is a straightforward process that varies depending on the operating system you are using. Whether on Windows, macOS, or Linux, it generally involves removing the Node.js program files and associated package managers such as npm. On Windows, this can be done via the Control Panel or Settings app, while macOS users typically use Homebrew or manual deletion methods. Linux users often rely on package managers like apt or yum to uninstall Node.js cleanly.

    It is important to ensure that all related files and environment variables are properly removed to avoid conflicts or residual issues when reinstalling or switching Node.js versions. Additionally, clearing the npm cache and deleting global node_modules directories can help maintain a clean development environment. Understanding the specific steps for your platform ensures a thorough and error-free uninstallation process.

    Overall, having a clear approach to uninstalling Node.js not only helps in managing system resources but also supports better version control and troubleshooting. By following the recommended procedures and verifying removal, developers can maintain an optimized setup tailored to their current project requirements.

    Author Profile

    Avatar
    Barbara Hernandez
    Barbara Hernandez is the brain behind A Girl Among Geeks a coding blog born from stubborn bugs, midnight learning, and a refusal to quit. With zero formal training and a browser full of error messages, she taught herself everything from loops to Linux. Her mission? Make tech less intimidating, one real answer at a time.

    Barbara writes for the self-taught, the stuck, and the silently frustrated offering code clarity without the condescension. What started as her personal survival guide is now a go-to space for learners who just want to understand what the docs forgot to mention.