Angular-CLI (Command Line Interface) is an essential tool for developers working with Angular, a popular web application framework. However, with frequent updates and new versions, it’s crucial for developers to know how to uninstall and upgrade Angular-CLI effectively. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to help you smoothly transition to the latest version.
Before diving into the uninstallation and upgrade process, it’s important to understand why keeping Angular-CLI up-to-date is essential. Upgrading ensures access to the latest features, improved performance, bug fixes, and compatibility with other tools and frameworks.
Prerequisites
Ensure that Node.js is installed on your system. Angular-CLI is a Node.js application.
Backup your existing Angular projects to prevent any data loss during the upgrade process.
Step 1: Checking the Current Version
To start, open your terminal or command prompt and check your current version of Angular-CLI with the following command:
ng version
This command displays the installed version of Angular-CLI, along with other Angular environment information.
Step 2: Uninstalling Angular-CLI
To uninstall the current version of Angular-CLI, use the following npm command:
npm uninstall -g @angular/cli
This command removes Angular-CLI from your system. The -g flag indicates that it should be uninstalled globally.
Step 3: Clearing the Cache
After uninstalling, it’s a good practice to clear the npm cache. This prevents any potential conflicts or issues with the installation of the new version. Execute:
npm cache verify
If you encounter any issues, use npm cache clean --force. However, use this command with caution as it forcefully clears the cache.
Step 4: Installing the New Version of Angular-CLI
Now, install the latest version of Angular-CLI globally using npm:
npm install -g @angular/cli@latest
This command fetches the latest version of Angular-CLI and installs it on your system.
Step 5: Updating Angular Projects
If you have existing Angular projects, you may need to update them to be compatible with the new version of Angular-CLI. Navigate to your project directory and run:
ng update
This command updates your project dependencies. For specific updates, such as core Angular packages, use:
ng update @angular/core @angular/cli
Step 6: Verifying the Installation
Finally, verify that the new version of Angular-CLI is installed correctly:
ng version
This should display the new version of Angular-CLI, confirming a successful upgrade.
Conclusion
Keeping Angular-CLI updated is crucial for Angular development. By following these steps, developers can ensure they have the latest tools and features to build efficient and modern web applications. Remember to regularly check for Angular-CLI updates and repeat this process to stay current.