Installing Gatsby.js on Ubuntu: A Step-by-Step Guide
You install Gatsby.js on Ubuntu to build fast, secure, and performant websites using React.
Gatsby.js is an open-source framework that leverages React to create static sites and apps, pulling data from various sources into a unified development experience.
This process ensures you have a fully configured Gatsby development environment ready for your next web project.
Install Node.js via NVM, then install the Gatsby CLI globally using npm. Create a new Gatsby site with `gatsby new` and start the development server with `gatsby develop` in your project directory.
Install NVM (Node Version Manager) and Node.js
Installing Node.js is the first step for Gatsby.js on Ubuntu, and using NVM (Node Version Manager) makes it easy to handle different versions.
First, update your system and install curl:
sudo apt update sudo apt install curl
Next, download the latest NVM installer. Note: Always verify the script hash provided on the official %📂%LNK0%% NVM repository before running it to ensure security.
curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.40.1/install.sh | bash
Refresh your shell so NVM works:
source ~/.bashrc
Now, install the current Long Term Support (LTS) version of Node.js, which is v22:
nvm install 22 nvm use 22
Gatsby CLI
The Gatsby CLI is a tool that helps you create and manage your sites. Install it with this command:
npm install -g gatsby-cli
Check the version to confirm it is installed:
gatsby --version
Create Gatsby app
Creating your first Gatsby app on Ubuntu is straightforward with the Gatsby CLI; just use the ‘gatsby new’ command to start.
gatsby new
The CLI will ask you a few questions to set up your project:
- What would you like to call your site? Choose a name like “myapp”.
- What would you like to name the folder? Press Enter to use the default.
- Will you be using JavaScript or TypeScript? Choose based on your preference.
- Will you be using a CMS? Select “No” for now.
- Would you like to install a styling system? Choose your preferred CSS framework (like Tailwind or CSS Modules).
The tool will automatically download the necessary files and set up your folder structure.
Access your app
To see your new Gatsby app working on Ubuntu, navigate to your project folder and run ‘gatsby develop’ to start the local server.
cd myapp/ gatsby develop
Open your web browser and go to:
http://localhost:8000
Note: If you see an error saying the port is in use, another program is already running on port 8000. You can try a different port by adding the -p flag, like this: gatsby develop -p 8001.
Conclusion
You now have Gatsby.js running on your Ubuntu machine. You have set up the environment, installed the CLI, created a new project, and launched the development server. You are ready to start building your website.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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