I’m trying to build a chat app using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript with Node.js as the server. But I’m hitting some roadblocks on my work laptop.
I had to unzip the npm package (version 10.5.0) to get around admin limits. I set up a ChatApp folder with server.js, a public folder, node.exe, package.json, and node_modules. Inside node_modules, I made an npm folder and put the unzipped files there.
When I tried to install express and socket.io using the npm-cli.js file, everything went haywire. The npm folder turned into a shortcut, all the unzipped files vanished, and a bunch of useless files appeared.
This keeps happening whenever I run node server.js or any command in that directory. Is this a Windows 11 Enterprise thing? Any ideas on how to fix this mess?
It appears that the unconventional workaround of unzipping the npm package to bypass admin restrictions is leading to severe file system issues on your device. In my experience, tampering with the structure of npm’s installation can easily corrupt your development environment, especially on systems with strict IT policies. A more reliable approach would be to secure the necessary permissions through your IT department or, if that’s not possible, implement a contained development environment like a VM or Docker. This ensures that Node.js and npm operate in a fully supported configuration, minimizing potential conflicts.
yo dude, sounds like a real headache ur dealin with. have u tried using a portable version of node.js? might be easier than messin with all that unzipping stuff. also, maybe check if theres any weird antivirus or security stuff runnin that could be messin with ur files. good luck man!
I’ve faced similar issues with locked-down work machines before. One workaround that’s worked for me is using a portable version of Node.js, as someone else mentioned. But another option you might consider is using a cloud-based development environment like Replit or GitPod. These let you code and run Node.js projects entirely in the browser, bypassing local setup headaches. Just be careful about any sensitive work data, of course.
If you really need it local, you could also look into Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL). It gives you a Linux environment on Windows where you can install Node.js without admin rights. Might be worth exploring if your IT policies allow it.
Whatever route you go, document the process. It’ll save you (and maybe your coworkers) a ton of hassle next time!