NVM (Node Version Manager) lets you install multiple Node.js versions and switch between them with a single command. This is essential for developers working on multiple projects with different Node.js requirements on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS.

Tested and valid on:

  • Ubuntu 24.04 LTS

Prerequisites

  • Ubuntu 24.04 LTS server or desktop
  • A user account (NVM is installed per-user, not system-wide)

Step 1 – Install NVM

Download and run the NVM install script:

curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.7/install.sh | bash

Step 2 – Activate NVM

Load NVM into the current session:

export NVM_DIR="$HOME/.nvm"
[ -s "$NVM_DIR/nvm.sh" ] && . "$NVM_DIR/nvm.sh"

Or simply open a new terminal — NVM adds itself to ~/.bashrc automatically.

Step 3 – Verify NVM

Confirm NVM is installed:

nvm --version

Step 4 – Install Node.js Versions

Install Node.js 20 LTS and the latest version:

nvm install 20
nvm install node   # latest

List installed versions:

nvm ls

Step 5 – Switch Between Versions

Use a specific version:

nvm use 20

Set a default version for new shells:

nvm alias default 20

Step 6 – Use a .nvmrc File

Pin a project to a specific Node version:

echo '20' > /path/to/project/.nvmrc
cd /path/to/project && nvm use

Step 7 – Uninstall a Version

Remove a specific Node.js version:

nvm uninstall 18

Conclusion

NVM is now set up on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. It provides fine-grained control over Node.js versions per project without requiring root access or affecting global system packages.