# Node.js Requirements for Archify: Version Compatibility and Installation Guide

> Discover the Node.js requirements for Archify v18+ and DeepSeek Harness v22.19+ or v24. Install Archify seamlessly with our comprehensive guide.

- Repository: [tt-a1i/archify](https://github.com/tt-a1i/archify)
- Tags: getting-started
- Published: 2026-09-08

---

**Archify requires Node.js version 18 or higher for core functionality, while the optional DeepSeek Harness integration requires Node.js 22.19.0 or newer (or any 24.x release).**

The Node.js requirements for Archify depend on which components you plan to use from the `tt-a1i/archify` repository. While the core package maintains broad compatibility with modern LTS releases, specific integrations demand newer runtime features. Understanding these engine constraints ensures your development environment matches the specifications defined in the source code.

## Core Node.js Engine Requirements

According to [`archify/package.json`](https://github.com/tt-a1i/archify/blob/main/archify/package.json), the base package declares a strict engine constraint requiring **Node.js ≥ 18**. This specification appears in lines 11-13 of the core package configuration, ensuring the runtime supports modern ECMAScript features and module systems used throughout the codebase.

The entry point script at `archify/bin/archify.mjs` executes under these runtime constraints, processing commands such as the `doctor` diagnostic check.

## DeepSeek Harness Integration Requirements

When utilizing the optional DeepSeek Harness integration, you must meet stricter version requirements documented in [`integrations/deepseek-harness/README.md`](https://github.com/tt-a1i/archify/blob/main/integrations/deepseek-harness/README.md). The integration requires:

- **Node.js ^22.19.0** (version 22.19.0 or higher patch versions within major version 22)
- **OR Node.js ≥ 24.0.0** (any release from major version 24 and above)

This elevated baseline ensures compatibility with the specific APIs and performance characteristics required by the DeepSeek Harness plugin architecture.

## Verifying Your Node.js Version

Before installing Archify or its integrations, verify your current runtime matches the required constraints.

Check your installed version:

```bash
node -v

```

The output must show `v18.x.x` or higher for core Archify, or `v22.19.0`/`v24.x.x` and above for the DeepSeek integration.

## Installation Commands by Use Case

Install and run Archify components according to your specific Node.js version.

### Core Archify Installation

To install the main package globally using `npx` (requires Node ≥ 18):

```bash
npx skills add tt-a1i/archify -g

```

To execute the diagnostic command directly via the entry point script:

```bash
node archify/bin/archify.mjs doctor

```

### DeepSeek Harness Integration

First ensure your Node version meets the higher requirement (≥ 22.19.0 or ≥ 24.0.0), then install the plugin using the DeepSeek Harness CLI:

```bash
dsh plugin --profile web add @tt-a1i/archify-dsh@0.1.0

```

## Summary

- **Core requirement:** Node.js version 18 or higher, as specified in [`archify/package.json`](https://github.com/tt-a1i/archify/blob/main/archify/package.json) lines 11-13
- **DeepSeek integration:** Node.js 22.19.0+ or 24.x+, documented in [`integrations/deepseek-harness/README.md`](https://github.com/tt-a1i/archify/blob/main/integrations/deepseek-harness/README.md)
- **Entry point:** The `archify/bin/archify.mjs` script operates under these version constraints
- **Verification:** Use `node -v` to confirm compatibility before running installation commands

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the minimum Node.js version required for Archify?

The minimum Node.js version for the core Archify package is **18**, as declared in the `engines` field of [`archify/package.json`](https://github.com/tt-a1i/archify/blob/main/archify/package.json). This ensures support for modern JavaScript features while maintaining stability across active Long-Term Support releases.

### Why does the DeepSeek Harness integration require a higher Node.js version?

The DeepSeek Harness integration targets **Node.js 22.19.0 or newer (or any 24.x release)** to leverage specific runtime optimizations and API features introduced in these versions. The integration's README documents these stricter requirements to ensure reliable plugin performance and compatibility with the DeepSeek Harness architecture.

### How do I check if my Node.js version is compatible with Archify?

Run `node -v` in your terminal. For core Archify functionality, verify the output shows version 18 or higher. If you plan to use the DeepSeek Harness integration, ensure the version is at least 22.19.0 or falls within the 24.x release line before executing the plugin installation command.

### Where are the Node.js version requirements defined in the Archify source code?

The core requirement appears in [`archify/package.json`](https://github.com/tt-a1i/archify/blob/main/archify/package.json) (lines 11-13) under the `engines` field. The DeepSeek Harness integration requirements are documented separately in [`integrations/deepseek-harness/README.md`](https://github.com/tt-a1i/archify/blob/main/integrations/deepseek-harness/README.md). The main executable at `archify/bin/archify.mjs` runs under these defined constraints.