Setting up a new React project shouldn't come with a wall of dependency errors or unnecessary bloat. In this quick guide, we’re installing Node.js and using Vite to spin up a blazing-fast, modern React development environment in under four minutes.

If you prefer a visual, step-by-step walkthrough showing the exact configuration and setup live, check out the companion video below:

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

1. Download and Install Node.js

Before installing React, you need Node.js on your system.

1. Head to the official website and download the installer for your operating system (e.g., Windows).
2. Run the installation wizard, accept the license agreements, keep the default installation folder, and click Install.

2. Initialize Your React App with Vite

Open your terminal (Command Prompt on Windows) and run the following command to initialize your project template:

bash
npm create vite@latest my-app -- --template react