How to Install ReactJS on Windows: Step-by-Step Guide
ReactJS has become one of the most popular JavaScript libraries for building dynamic and interactive user interfaces, powering some of the biggest websites and applications across the web. If you’re a Windows user eager to dive into React development, setting up your environment properly is the first step toward success. Installing ReactJS on Windows may seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance, it’s a straightforward process that opens the door to endless possibilities in web development.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to installing ReactJS on your Windows system. From setting up essential tools like Node.js and npm (Node Package Manager) to creating your first React application using Create React App, we’ll cover everything you need to get started. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced developer, this guide will help you set up a seamless React development environment tailored for both Windows 10 and Windows 11 users.
Prerequisites to Install ReactJS
Before you start setting up React on your Windows machine, it’s important to ensure you have the following essentials in place:
Administrator Access
Administrator privileges are required to install software and make system-wide changes on your Windows machine.
- Installing tools like Node.js and npm modifies system files and environment variables.
- Without administrator access, you might face permission errors during the installation process.
To check if you have administrator access: Right-click on the Start Menu and select Settings > Accounts > Your Info
Note: If you’re using a standard account, you’ll need to log in with an admin account or request permissions from the administrator.
Internet Connection
A stable internet connection is required to:
- Download the latest version of Node.js, which includes npm, from the official website.
- Fetch React’s dependencies during the app creation process.
Tip: If you experience slow or unstable connectivity, consider downloading offline installers for tools like Node.js or using a faster network to complete the installation process without interruptions.
System Requirements
Your computer should meet the minimum hardware and software requirements:
- RAM : At least 4 GB (8 GB or more is recommended for better performance) 3.
- Storage : At least 10 GB of free space on your hard disk to accommodate Node.js, npm, and project files.
- Operating System : Windows 10 or 11, macOS 10.10, or Ubuntu 16 (or higher versions) for optimal compatibility and performance
Steps to Install React on Windows
Follow these Steps to Install React.js and Create a React App on Windows 10/11:
Step 1: Install Node.js
React relies on Node.js and its package manager, npm, to manage dependencies. To install React, start by installing Node.js, which includes npm (Node Package Manager).
- Visit the official Node.js website.
- Download the LTS (Long Term Support) version for Windows. This version is stable and recommended for most users.
Note: Node.js® is a free, open-source, and cross-platform runtime environment for JavaScript. It enables developers to build servers, web applications, command-line tools, and scripts, all using JavaScript outside of a browser.
Install Node.js
Step 2: Run the Installer
- Locate the downloaded
.msifile and double-click to run it. - Follow the prompts in the setup wizard, accept the license agreement, and use the default settings for installation.
Step 3: Verify Node.js Installation
Open Command Prompt or PowerShell > Check the installed versions by running these commands:
- Type
node -vand press Enter to check the Node.js version. - Type
npm -vand press Enter to check the npm version. - Both commands should return version numbers, confirming successful installation.
Verify Node.js Installation
Step 4: Install CRA (Deprecated Alternative)
Create React App (CRA) has been officially deprecated in 2023 and is no longer the recommended method for starting React projects. Instead, tools like Vite or Next.js are now preferred for creating React applications due to better performance and modern features. However, if you still want to use it, follow these steps:
1. Install CRA Globally
npm install -g create-react-app
Install CRA
Additional Tip:
- However, it’s better to switch to newer tools like Vite, Next.js, or even CRA alternatives for a more optimized development experience.
2. Verify the installation
It will globally install react app for you. To check everything went well run the command
create-react-app --version
If everything went well it will give you the installed version of react app
Step 5: Create Directory for React Projects
1. Create a New Folder
Create a new folder where you want your React app, use the following command:
mkdir newfolder
Note: The newfolder in the above command is the name of the folder and can be anything.
2. Move inside the folder
Move inside the same folder using the below command:
cd newfolder (your folder name)
Step 6: Create the React App Using CRA Command
If you’re using CRA:
Run the following command to create a React app:
npx create-react-app reactfirst
Note:
- The app name must be in lowercase due to npm naming restrictions.
- This command installs all required dependencies and sets up your app.
It will take some time to install the required dependencies
Note: Due to npm naming restrictions, names can no longer contain capital letters, thus type your App name in lowercase.
If using Vite:
Use the following command
npm create vite@latest reactfirst -- --template react
Step 7: Open the Project in a Code Editor
Now open the IDE of your choice for eg. Visual studio code and open the folder where you have installed the react app newfolder (in the above example) inside the folder you will see your app’s name reactapp (In our example). Use the terminal and move inside your app name folder.
Use the following command:
cd reactapp (your app name)
Step 8: Run the React App
Start the development server by running:
npm start
Once you run the above command, a new browser tab will open, displaying the default React page with the React logo.
Congratulation! You have successfully installed the react-app and are ready to build awesome websites and app. Whether you used CRA, Vite, or another tool, you’re now ready to start building dynamic web applications. Explore React’s features like components, state, and props to create amazing projects.
Also Read:
Boost Your React Development Skills with the React JS Course
Take your React development expertise to the next level by enrolling in the React JS Course offered by GeeksforGeeks. This complete course offers installation process, covering essential topics like components, state management, and routing. With hands-on projects and real-world applications, you’ll gain practical experience to confidently build dynamic, high-performance web applications. Equip yourself with the skills needed to excel in modern web development.
Conclusion
By following the steps in this guide, you now have a fully functional React development environment on Windows PC or Laptop. Whether you used Create React App (CRA), Vite, or another modern tool, you’re ready to start building dynamic, high-performance web applications. React offers endless possibilities for creating interactive user interfaces, and now that your setup is complete, you can explore its core concepts like components, props, state, and hooks. Remember to keep your tools updated and consider using modern frameworks like Vite or Next.js for future projects to stay aligned with the latest best practices in web development.
Install ReactJS on Windows – FAQs
How do I install React on Windows?
Step 1: Install Node.js from nodejs.org (choose the LTS version).
Step 2: Verify the installation using the commands
- node -v
- npm -v
Step 3: Create a React app using a modern tool like Vite: npm create vite@latest my-react-app — –template react
Step 4: Navigate to the app directory: cd my-react-app
Step 5: Start the development server: npm run dev
How to check if ReactJS is installed or not?
Step 1: Navigate to your React project folder: cd path-to-your-app
Step 2: Check for React in the
package.jsonfile underdependenciesor run: npm list react
How to run ReactJS in Command Prompt?
Step 1: Open the command prompt and navigate to your React project folder: cd path-to-your-app
Step 2: Start the development server:
For Create React App or similar tools: npm start
For Vite: npm run dev
Step 3: Open the URL displayed in the terminal (e.g.,
http://localhost:3000) to view your app.
What to install to run ReactJS?
Step 1: Install Node.js from nodejs.org.
Step 2: Install npm (bundled with Node.js).
Step 3: Use a modern code editor like Visual Studio Code for writing React code.
Step 4: Use a browser (e.g., Chrome) to preview your React app.
How to install npm in Windows?
Step 1: Install Node.js, as npm is bundled with it.
Step 2: Verify npm installation with: npm -vStep 3: If npm is missing, update or reinstall it using: npm install -g npm@latest
Is ReactJS frontend or backend?
Step 1: Understand that ReactJS is a frontend library used for building user interfaces.
Step 2: Pair ReactJS with backend tools like Node.js or Express.js for full-stack applications.
Which software is required for ReactJS?
Step 1: Install Node.js (for managing dependencies and running the development server).
Step 2: Use a code editor like Visual Studio Code to write and manage React code.
Step 3: Use a modern browser (e.g., Chrome) for testing your app.
