npm
npm (Node Package Manager) is the default package manager for the JavaScript runtime environment Node.js, used to install, manage, and share reusable code packages (modules) for JavaScript projects. It provides a command-line interface for developers to handle dependencies, run scripts, and publish packages to the npm registry, a vast public repository of open-source libraries. npm simplifies dependency management, enabling efficient project setup and collaboration in the JavaScript ecosystem.
Developers should learn npm because it is essential for managing dependencies in Node.js and front-end JavaScript projects, ensuring consistent environments and streamlined workflows. It is particularly useful for installing libraries like React or Express, automating tasks with scripts, and sharing code via packages, making it critical for modern web development, especially in full-stack or server-side applications. Use cases include initializing projects, handling versioning, and integrating with build tools like Webpack.