Run a Node.js application in Plesk (GARMTECH Hosting)

Plesk on GARMTECH hosting can run Node.js applications using the built-in Node.js support. This article explains the typical deployment workflow (upload → configure → install dependencies → start) and where to view logs.

Before you start

• Make sure your hosting plan supports Node.js. In Plesk you should see a Node.js item for your domain.
• Upload your project using Plesk File Manager or FTP‑SSL (GARMTECH hosting accepts FTP‑SSL connections only).

Step 1: Upload your application files

1. Open Plesk → Files.
2. Create a folder for your app (example: httpdocs/myapp) and upload your project files there.
3. Confirm your package.json and startup file (for example app.js or server.js) are present.

Step 2: Enable and configure Node.js in Plesk

1. Plesk → Websites & Domains → choose the domain → click Node.js.
2. Click Enable Node.js.
3. Set:
   • Application root: the folder with your app (example: httpdocs/myapp)
   • Application startup file: (example: app.js)
   • Document root: where static files are served (optional; often public)
4. Select a Node.js version (if multiple versions are available).

Step 3: Install dependencies (npm install)

On the Node.js page in Plesk, use the button to run:

• NPM install (installs packages from package.json)

Step 4: Start (or restart) the application

• Use Run / Restart on the Node.js page.

Important: Your app must listen on the port provided by Plesk. Use process.env.PORT:

const port = process.env.PORT || 3000;
app.listen(port);

Logs and troubleshooting

• Open the domain’s Logs in Plesk to review web errors.
• On the Node.js page, check application output/logs (if shown in your Plesk version).
• If the app does not start, typical causes are missing dependencies, wrong startup file, or a port hardcoded in code.

Tip: For production deployments, avoid keeping secrets in code. Use environment variables in the Plesk Node.js settings.