Npm installation of Playwright failing with security error

Other Questions NPM
1

Hey folks, I’m stuck with a frustrating issue while trying to set up Playwright using npm in VS Code. When I run the command npm init playwright@latest in the terminal, I get this annoying security error:

npm : File C:\Program Files\nodejs\npm.ps1 cannot be loaded because running scripts is disabled
on this system. For more information, see about_Execution_Policies at
[link removed]
At line:1 char:1
+ npm init playwright@latest
+
  + CategoryInfo          : SecurityError: (:) [], PSSecurityException
  + FullyQualifiedErrorId : UnauthorizedAccess

It looks like there’s some kind of script execution policy blocking the installation. Has anyone run into this before? Any ideas on how to fix it? I’m pretty new to this stuff, so any help would be awesome. Thanks!

2

I’ve encountered this issue before, and it can be quite frustrating. The problem stems from Windows PowerShell’s default security settings, which restrict script execution. While changing the execution policy as suggested can work, it’s not always the safest option.

Instead, I’d recommend using the Node.js command prompt that comes with your Node.js installation. It bypasses PowerShell’s restrictions. Here’s what you can do:

  1. Open the Start menu and search for ‘Node.js command prompt’
  2. Run it as administrator
  3. Navigate to your project directory
  4. Run the npm init playwright@latest command

This approach maintains your system’s security settings while allowing you to install Playwright. If you still face issues, consider updating Node.js and npm to their latest versions. Hope this helps!

3

hey jack81, i ran into this before. try running powershell as admin and use this command:

Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned

then try the npm command again. it should work now. lemme know if u need more help!

4

This issue is indeed related to PowerShell’s execution policy, as others have mentioned. However, there’s another approach you might consider that doesn’t involve changing system settings or using a different command prompt.

You can bypass the execution policy for a single command by using the -ExecutionPolicy Bypass parameter. Try this in your VS Code terminal:

powershell -ExecutionPolicy Bypass -Command “npm init playwright@latest”

This method allows you to run the npm command without permanently altering your system’s security settings. It’s a good balance between security and functionality.

If you’re still encountering issues, ensure your Node.js and npm are up-to-date, as outdated versions can sometimes cause unexpected problems during installation processes.