Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-19

How to Fix: nodejs latest version installation error on ubuntu 18.10

Node.js installation error on Ubuntu 18.10

Quick Answer: Try removing held broken packages before installing nodejs.

The latest version of Node.js installation error on Ubuntu 18.10 is a common issue faced by many users, especially those new to Linux. The error occurs when the package manager is unable to install the required dependencies for Node.js, leading to an unmet dependency error.

This error can be frustrating, as it prevents users from installing the latest version of Node.js and accessing its features. However, with a thorough understanding of the root causes and the correct troubleshooting steps, users can resolve this issue and get back to using their system efficiently.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The primary reason for this error is that Ubuntu 18.10 has deprecated the python-minimal package, which is required by Node.js. As a result, the package manager is unable to install Node.js due to the unmet dependency.
  • Another possible cause is that there are held broken packages in the system's package cache, which can prevent the package manager from installing new packages correctly.

🚀 How to Resolve This Issue

Clearing the held broken packages and updating the package list

  1. Step 1: Update the package list using the command `sudo apt update` to ensure that the package manager has access to the latest package information.
  2. Step 2: Remove any held broken packages by running the command `sudo apt autoremove && sudo apt autoclean` to clear out any unnecessary or corrupted packages in the system's cache.

Using an alternative Node.js installation method

  1. Step 1: Instead of using the official Ubuntu repository, try installing Node.js from a third-party source using the command `curl -sL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_lts.x | sudo bash -` to install the latest LTS version.
  2. Step 2: If you want to install a specific version of Node.js, use the command `curl -sL https://deb.nodesource.com/setup_x.x | sudo bash -` to download and install the desired version.

✨ Wrapping Up

By following these steps, users can resolve the unmet dependency error and successfully install the latest version of Node.js on Ubuntu 18.10. Remember to always keep your system's package list up-to-date and clear any held broken packages to prevent similar issues in the future.

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