Unexpected high download count for my new npm package: What's going on?

Other Questions NPM
1

Confused about my npm package’s popularity

I recently uploaded my first npm package. It’s a basic audio tool for trimming and joining files. I put it up just two days ago.

Here’s the weird part: it’s already got 111 downloads! How is this possible?

I haven’t told anyone about it or shared it anywhere. The README is completely empty. I haven’t even written any docs for it yet.

Is this normal? Could it be some kind of glitch in npm’s system? Or are there bots that automatically download new packages?

Has anyone else experienced something similar with their first package? I’m really puzzled by this. Any insights would be great!

function audioTrimmer(file) {
  // Imagine some code here
  console.log('Audio trimmed')
}

function audioJoiner(file1, file2) {
  // Imagine some code here
  console.log('Audio joined')
}

module.exports = { audioTrimmer, audioJoiner }

Thanks for any help in figuring this out!

2

I’ve encountered this phenomenon with my own packages too. It’s not a glitch or bots, but rather a combination of factors that contribute to those initial downloads.

First, npm’s download count includes installations by CI/CD pipelines and automated builds. These systems often fetch the latest versions of all dependencies, including newly published ones.

Additionally, some developers use tools that automatically check for new packages in specific categories. Your audio tool might have caught their attention.

Lastly, npm’s own infrastructure and mirrors can account for some downloads as they sync and cache new packages across their network.

Don’t be discouraged by this! It’s actually a good sign that your package is visible in the ecosystem. Focus on improving your README and documentation now. That’ll help convert those automated hits into real users once people start discovering your tool organically.

3

hey, don’t worry bout those numbers! it’s pretty normal for new packages. npm’s got all these systems n mirrors that grab new stuff. plus, some devs use tools that auto-check for fresh packages.

focus on makin ur readme awesome n sharing it places. that’ll bring in the real users who’ll actually use ur audio tool. keep workin on it!

4

This isn’t uncommon in the npm ecosystem. Many factors contribute to those initial downloads, and it’s not necessarily direct user interest. Package registries, mirrors, and CDNs often fetch new packages to update their caches. Some companies run regular scans on new packages for security purposes. CI/CD pipelines and development environments might automatically pull in new packages too.

While 111 downloads is a good start, I’d recommend focusing on improving your package’s documentation and functionality. A comprehensive README, clear usage examples, and perhaps a simple demo project can help attract genuine users. Consider sharing your package on relevant forums or social media to gain more targeted attention.

Remember, download counts alone don’t indicate package quality or adoption. Keep refining your tool, and the right users will find it in time.