React Native Environment Setup

This section explains the complete setup process in a clear and beginner-friendly way.

Installing Node.js and npm

Node.js is required to run JavaScript outside the browser, and npm is used to manage packages.

🔸 Download Node.js from the official Node.js website
🔸 Install the recommended LTS version
🔸 npm is installed automatically with Node.js
🔸 Verify installation using node -v and npm -v

Node.js and npm form the foundation of React Native development.

Setting Up React Native CLI

React Native CLI allows you to create and manage React Native projects with full control.

🔸 Install React Native CLI using npm
🔸 Set up required dependencies
🔸 Ensure proper environment variables are configured
🔸 Verify setup using React Native CLI commands

React Native CLI is recommended for developers who want deeper control and production-level customization.

Expo vs React Native CLI

React Native provides two ways to build apps: Expo and React Native CLI.

🔸 Expo offers quick setup and faster development
🔸 React Native CLI provides full native access
🔸 Expo is beginner-friendly
🔸 React Native CLI is preferred for complex apps

Choosing the right approach depends on your project needs and experience level.

Android Studio & Emulator Setup

Android Studio is required to build and test Android apps.

🔸 Install Android Studio
🔸 Set up Android SDK
🔸 Create and configure Android Virtual Device (AVD)
🔸 Start emulator from Android Studio

A properly configured emulator helps test your app without a physical device.

iOS Setup (macOS)

iOS development requires a macOS system.

🔸 Install Xcode from the App Store
🔸 Install required command-line tools
🔸 Set up iOS simulator
🔸 Verify iOS environment using React Native commands

This setup allows testing React Native apps on iPhones and iPads.

Creating Your First React Native App

After setup, you can create your first React Native application.

🔸 Use React Native CLI to create a new project
🔸 Navigate to the project directory
🔸 Run the app on Android emulator or iOS simulator
🔸 Verify default app output

This confirms that your environment is correctly configured.

Why Environment Setup Matters

Correct setup helps you:

🔸 Avoid common configuration issues
🔸 Save development time
🔸 Build stable applications
🔸 Focus on learning React Native instead of fixing errors