Node.js and npm commands not recognized in Command Prompt on Windows 11 Home but works fine in PowerShell #5126

Node.js Version

v24.12.0 installed lower versions also same issue

NPM Version

'node' is not recognized as an internal or external command

Operating System

Microsoft Windows 11 - [Version 10.0.26200.7462]

Subsystem

console

Description

'node - or npm -v' is not recognized as an internal or external command,
operable program or batch file. using

Steps to Reproduce:

1. Install Node.js using the .msi installer.
2. Confirm installation directory: C:\Program Files\nodejs.
3. Verify PATH includes C:\Program Files\nodejs.
4. Open PowerShell → run node -v and npm -v → works correctly.
5. Open Command Prompt (cmd.exe) → run node -v and npm -v.

Expected Behavior:
Both shells should recognize Node.js and npm commands.

Actual Behavior:

• PowerShell: ✅ Commands work.
• Command Prompt: ❌ Commands not recognized.

Additional Notes:

• Restarting the system does not resolve the issue.
• PATH variable changes are visible in System Environment Variables.
• Running where node in Command Prompt returns correct result, but works in PowerShell.

Minimal Reproduction

No response

Output

For node -v
'node' is not recognized as an internal or external command,
operable program or batch file.

For npm -v
'npm' is not recognized as an internal or external command,
operable program or batch file.

For where node
C:\Program Files\nodejs\node.exe

For where npm
C:\Program Files\nodejs\npm
C:\Program Files\nodejs\npm.cmd

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• I have looked for issues that already exist before submitting this
• My issue follows the guidelines in the README file, and follows the 'How to ask a good question' guide at https://stackoverflow.com/help/how-to-ask