How to Install Supabase CLI on Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide

Supabase is quickly becoming the preferred backend-as-a-service (BaaS) solution for developers. Yet, installing the Supabase CLI on Windows can challenge both new and seasoned programmers. If you've seen the error "Installing Supabase CLI as a global module is not supported," you're not alone. This guide will show you the right way to install the Supabase CLI on Windows, ensuring a smooth start to your projects.

Why Should You Use Supabase CLI?

The Supabase CLI is indispensable for anyone working with Supabase, allowing you to:

• Manage migrations efficiently.
• Push database schemas to your remote Supabase project.
• Simplify local development.
• Connect local files with your hosted project.
• Automate database tasks with ease.

It's essential for cloning projects or team collaboration, simplifying the development process so you can concentrate on building.

What's the Issue with npm Installation?

In the past, you could install the Supabase CLI using npm:

npm install -g supabase

This method is now unsupported, causing frustration for many. The Supabase team now recommends using Scoop, a Windows package manager, for a smoother installation process.

What Exactly is Scoop?

Scoop makes installing development tools on Windows as straightforward as using Homebrew on macOS or APT on Linux. It eliminates the need for complex installers or manual setups, making the Supabase CLI installation effortless.

How to Install Supabase CLI on Windows Using Scoop

Follow these steps to get Supabase CLI up and running on Windows with Scoop:

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator: Right-click the Start button and choose "Windows PowerShell (Admin)".

2. Set Execution Policy: Allow script installation with:

   Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned -Scope CurrentUser
   

   Confirm with Y.

3. Install Scoop: Use this command:

   iwr -useb get.scoop.sh | iex
   

4. Verify Scoop Installation: Check with:

   scoop --version
   

   A version number indicates success.

5. Install Supabase CLI: Install it using:

   scoop install supabase
   

6. Check Supabase CLI Installation: Confirm with:

   supabase --version
   

   A version number means you're all set!

Getting Started with Supabase CLI

With Supabase CLI ready, here's how to begin:

1. Log In: Execute:

   supabase login
   

   Log into your Supabase account in the browser window that opens.

2. Navigate to Your Project: Change directory:

   cd path/to/your/project
   

3. Link Your Project: Link it using:

   supabase link --project-ref <your-project-id>
   

   Find your project reference in the Supabase dashboard.

4. Push Database Changes: Apply migrations with:

   supabase db push
   

   This updates your remote PostgreSQL database safely with pending migrations.

How to Keep Supabase CLI Updated

Stay current with:

scoop update supabase

How to Uninstall Supabase CLI

If needed, uninstall with:

scoop uninstall supabase

Conclusion

Installing the Supabase CLI on Windows is straightforward with Scoop, sidestepping common issues. This setup empowers both new and experienced developers to manage migrations, push database schemas, and automate tasks efficiently.

Embrace Supabase for a more productive backend development experience, regardless of whether you're using frameworks like Next.js, Astro, or Laravel. This guide is your key to saving hours of potential debugging. Start using Supabase CLI now for a smoother development journey.