PlayInfoBox

Home /Education /How to Install a VS Code Extension

How to Install a VS Code Extension

Follow these steps in order to install a VS Code extension.

  1. Click the Extensions icon in the left sidebar

    Click the square-block-shaped Extensions icon on the left of VS Code (shortcut: Ctrl+Shift+X).

  2. Search for the extension you want

    Type a feature or language name, such as "Python" or a linter name, into the search box.

  3. Click "Install" on the search result

    Once you find the extension you want, click its "Install" button.

  4. Click "Reload" if prompted

    Some extensions require clicking "Reload" to restart VS Code before the changes take effect.

Extend the editor to fit your workflow

Extensions let you add autocompletion, code formatting, language support, and other features on top of VS Code's core functionality, letting you freely tailor the editor to whatever you are working on.

Be selective about what you install

Installing too many extensions can slow down startup and editing performance, so it is worth periodically reviewing installed extensions and disabling or removing ones you no longer actively use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if an extension is trustworthy before installing it?

Check the publisher name, install count, rating, and how recently it was updated on its marketplace page β€” extensions from verified publishers with active recent updates are generally safer choices.

How do I disable or remove an extension I no longer need?

Open the Extensions panel, find the installed extension, and click "Disable" to turn it off temporarily or "Uninstall" to remove it completely.