Node is a JavaScript run time environment that serves as a light yet robust server. Node was released May 27, 2009, and it does not seem to be going anywhere. It is used by some of the biggest names in tech, including; Paypal, Netflix, and Uber. Execution of JavaScript for Node is performed in your browser. For Chrome users that means that it is being ran by its engine, called V8.

Node Package Manger was implemented shortly after its release, adding to the appeal of the software. At this time the most popular NPM package for core functionality is express. Express is a framework that allows developers to deploy applications fast and painlessly. It does so by implementing routing, standard performance fixes and content negotiation.

Installation of packages happens in the console. The basic commands for NPM are;

//This command would install express.
npm install express

//The aforementioned command can shortened by typing i instead of install.
npm i express.

After you install your package you will be asked to assign several values to this application, such as the name of the application. You can skip this step and accept all standard answers like so.

npm i express -y

If you have any experience with your console these commands should feel fairly familiar. Here are some other beginner commands to get you started.