How to Update & Deploy Your Next.js App on a VPS Using Git and PM2

Keeping your Next.js app updated on your VPS is simple when you follow the right steps. Whether you’re pushing updates or deploying a fresh version, this quick guide will walk you through the process — from pulling the latest code to restarting your app with PM2.

✅ Step 1: Log In to Your VPS

Use SSH to access your server:

ssh root@your-server-ip

Make sure you have access permissions and the necessary SSH key or credentials.

📁 Step 2: Navigate to Your Project Directory

Move to the directory where your Next.js app lives (or where you want to deploy it):

cd /var/www/html/directory

Update the path if your project is located elsewhere.

🧬 Step 3: Pull the Latest Code from Git

Make sure you’re in the correct Git branch (e.g. main), then pull the latest updates:

git pull origin main

This will sync your server with the latest code from your remote repository.

🛠 Step 4: Build the Project

Next.js apps must be built before running in production:

npm install       # if any dependencies changed
npm run build     # build the latest version of the app

This compiles the app and prepares it for production.

🚀 Step 5: Run or Restart Your App with PM2

If your app is already managed by PM2, Read This If You didn’t Added Your Service on PM2:

pm2 restart your-app-name

🎉 Step 6: You’re Live!

That’s it! Your Next.js app is now updated and running the latest version.

Enjoy your app — faster, smarter, and up-to-date 🚀