How to Handle ‘/lib64/libc.so.6 version glibc_2.14’ Missing Error

If you’ve encountered the error message “node: /lib/x86_64-linux-gnu/libc.so.6: version GLIBC_2.28' not found (required by node)" while running the node -v` command, you’re not alone. This error can be frustrating, but it’s a solvable issue. In this guide, we’ll dive into the causes of the error and explore different solutions to resolve it.

Understanding the Error

The error message indicates a version mismatch between the GLIBC (GNU C Library) installed on your system and the version of Node.js you’re trying to run. Node.js relies on system libraries, and in this case, it requires a version of GLIBC that is higher than what your system currently has. The specific version mentioned in the error message is GLIBC_2.28.

Causes of the Error

Several factors can lead to this error:

1. Outdated GLIBC: If your system has an older version of the GLIBC library, it may not be compatible with the latest Node.js releases.
2. Using Node.js Versions with Higher GLIBC Requirements: Some versions of Node.js have higher GLIBC requirements. If you’re using a Node.js version that demands a GLIBC version not available on your system, you’ll encounter this issue.
3. Mismatched Node.js Installation: If you’ve recently updated Node.js or installed multiple Node.js versions, you might experience this problem.

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Solutions to the Error

Solution 1: Install an Older Node.js Version

One straightforward solution is to use an older Node.js version that is compatible with the GLIBC version on your system. You can do this with a tool like Node Version Manager (NVM):

# Remove your existing Node.js installation
sudo apt-get remove nodejs

# Install NVM
curl -o- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/nvm-sh/nvm/v0.39.2/install.sh | bash

# Source the bashrc file to activate NVM
source ~/.bashrc

# Install a compatible Node.js version (e.g., 14.x)
nvm install 14

This will allow you to switch to Node.js 14 (or another compatible version) and bypass the GLIBC issue.

Solution 2: Upgrade Your GLIBC

Another option is to upgrade your GLIBC library to a version that meets Node.js’s requirements. However, this process can be complex and might not be suitable for all users. Consider upgrading your Ubuntu version to a more recent release, which typically includes newer GLIBC versions.

Solution 3: Upgrade Your Ubuntu Version

Upgrading your Ubuntu distribution to a newer version, such as 20.04 or 22.04, is an effective way to ensure compatibility with the latest Node.js releases. Newer Ubuntu versions come with updated system libraries, including GLIBC.

To upgrade your Ubuntu, follow these general steps:

1. Backup your important data.
2. Update your current system: sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade.
3. Prepare for the upgrade: sudo apt install update-manager-core.
4. Initiate the upgrade: sudo do-release-upgrade.

Always consult official Ubuntu documentation for detailed instructions on upgrading your specific version.

Solution 4: Manually Build GLIBC (Advanced)

If you have advanced Linux skills, you can attempt to build a newer version of GLIBC and use it alongside your existing version. This approach can be challenging and may require in-depth knowledge of your system’s inner workings.

In conclusion, the “/lib64/libc.so.6 version glibc_2.14” missing error is a compatibility issue between Node.js and the GLIBC library on your system. You can either install an older Node.js version, upgrade your GLIBC or Ubuntu distribution, or manually build a compatible GLIBC version. Choose the solution that best fits your expertise and system requirements.

Remember to back up your important data and exercise caution when making changes to your system libraries. With the right approach, you can successfully resolve this error and continue working with Node.js on your Ubuntu system.

This blog post covers the error’s causes and provides several solutions to address it, from using an older Node.js version to upgrading your GLIBC or Ubuntu distribution. You can choose the solution that best suits your needs and technical expertise.