How to Install an NPM Package Directly from GitHub ?

Installing npm packages directly from GitHub can be incredibly useful, especially when you need to use a specific version or branch of a package that may not yet be published to the npm registry. This approach allows developers to take advantage of the latest features, bug fixes, or specific package branches hosted on a GitHub repository. This article will guide you through the process of installing an npm package directly from GitHub.

Install an npm Package Directly from GitHub

Why Install from GitHub?

• Access Unpublished Features: Sometimes, the latest features or bug fixes are available in a repository but not yet published to npm.
• Use Specific Branches: You might want to use a specific branch of a package, like a development or feature branch.
• Forked Repositories: You can use a modified or forked version of a package that is specific to your project needs.

To install an NPM Package directly from GitHub:

Step 1: Go to the package's GitHub Repository https://github.com/expressjs/express. Copy the cloning link.

Step 2: Go to your terminal or git bash and type: 

npm install git+{copied_url} 

Example: Run the below command in you terminal to install an npm package directly from GitHub.

npm install git+https://github.com/expressjs/express

Install from a Specific Branch or Commit

To install from a specific branch, append the #branch-name to the repository URL:

npm install <github-username>/<repository-name>#<branch-name>

Example:

npm install github:expressjs/express#development

To install a specific commit, use the commit hash:

npm install <github-username>/<repository-name>#<commit-hash>

Example:

npm install github:expressjs/express#4b8f97d

Common Use Cases

• Using Unpublished Fixes or Features: Install from a specific branch or commit that contains bug fixes or features not yet published to npm.
• Working with Forks: Use a forked version of a package that contains custom modifications specific to your project needs.
• Testing or Prototyping: Quickly test changes or prototypes from a GitHub repository without needing to publish the package.

Conclusion

Installing npm packages directly from GitHub provides flexibility to use the latest code, specific branches, or commits of a repository. This method is particularly useful for accessing unpublished changes or working with customized forks of existing packages. By following the steps and examples outlined above, you can easily integrate GitHub-hosted packages into your Node.js projects, ensuring you always have access to the latest and most relevant code.