How to resolve 'npm should be run outside of the node repl, in your normal shell'

Question

I am new to node.js. I downloaded and install node.js installer from the official site. I have added this installer folder in PATH environment variable and I am able to run programs. But when I try to install some package using npm in node console it shows the error npm should be run outside of the node repl, in your normal shell. I also tried it on a separate console. But it shows command not found though I have added node in the environment variable.

Answer 1

For Windows users, run npm commands from the Command Prompt (cmd.exe), not Node.Js (node.exe). So your "normal shell" is cmd.exe. (I agree this message can be confusing for a Windows, Node newbie.)

By the way, the Node.js Command Prompt is actually just an easy shortcut to cmd.exe.

Below is an example screenshot for installing grunt from cmd.exe:

Answer 2

Do not run the application using node.js icon.

Go to All Programmes->Node.js->Node.js command prompt.

Below is example screen shot.