Install Visual Studio Code on Ubuntu: Step-by-Step Guide
Installing Visual Studio Code on Ubuntu gives you a free code editor from Microsoft to write and run computer programs. The official software repository method sets up updates to run automatically so you always have the newest version.
VS Code works on Linux, Windows, and macOS. It brings helpful built-in tools like smart text coloring, code suggestions as you type, and tools to find and fix errors in your projects.
Open your terminal and run `sudo snap install code –classic` to install VS Code via Snap. Alternatively, add the Microsoft APT repository and then run `sudo apt update && sudo apt install code`.
How to install VS Code on Ubuntu Linux
You can install VS Code using one of the two methods below. Most users prefer the first method.
Method 1Installing via Snap (Recommended)
The Snap Store offers the easiest way to install Visual Studio Code (VS Code) on your Ubuntu system. Installing VS Code through the Snap Store ensures that VS Code automatically updates itself, keeping your software current without manual intervention.
- Open your terminal.
- Run this command:
sudo snap install code --classic
Method 2Installing via APT Repository
Installing Visual Studio Code on Ubuntu using the APT repository is a reliable method that lets your system automatically update the program. This approach ensures you always have the latest features and security fixes without manual intervention. First, you’ll check your computer’s architecture to make sure it’s compatible with the software.
dpkg --print-architecture. Most modern systems use amd64.Install the necessary helper tools:
sudo apt update && sudo apt install wget gpgNow, import the Microsoft GPG key to your keyring folder:
wget -qO- https://packages.microsoft.com/keys/microsoft.asc | gpg --dearmor > packages.microsoft.gpg
sudo install -D -o root -g root -m 644 packages.microsoft.gpg /etc/apt/keyrings/packages.microsoft.gpg
Next, add the repository source file for your Ubuntu system:
echo "deb [arch=amd64 signed-by=/etc/apt/keyrings/packages.microsoft.gpg] https://packages.microsoft.com/repos/code stable main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/vscode.list > /dev/nullFinally, update your package list and install the editor:
sudo apt updatesudo apt install code
VS Code is now installed. You can find it in your application menu.
Post-Installation
After you install Visual Studio Code on Ubuntu, adding extensions can really boost your coding experience by adding new features.
- Remote Development pack: Allows you to code on remote machines or inside containers.
- GitHub Copilot: Uses AI to help you write code faster.
Conclusion
Visual Studio Code is a versatile, feature-rich code editor compatible with various platforms. Git control, syntax highlighting, and code completion are among the features supported by VS Code. By following these steps, developers can seamlessly install and utilize VS Code for their coding projects.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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