Hey there, fellow developers! If you’re diving into the world of AI-assisted coding, Anthropic’s Claude Code is a game-changer. Launched as a terminal-based powerhouse, it leverages the Claude AI models to understand your codebase, answer questions, generate code, debug issues, and even refactor entire projects-all right from your command line. No more context-switching between IDEs and chat windows; Claude Code feels like having a senior engineer whispering insights directly into your shell.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything, from prerequisites to setting up your first session. Whether you’re using macOS, Linux, or Windows, I’ve got you covered with clear, step-by-step instructions. By the end, you’ll be ready to supercharge your workflow. Let’s get coding!
Why Claude Code?
Before we jump in, here’s the TL;DR: Claude Code isn’t just another Copilot clone-it’s agentic, meaning it can autonomously explore your repo, run commands (with your approval), and maintain context across sessions. It’s perfect for solo devs, teams, or anyone tired of hallucinating LLMs. Pricing starts at $100/month for the Pro plan, which gives you ample tokens for daily use without hitting walls. (Upgrade to Max if you’re going all-in on large codebases.)
Prerequisites and System Requirements
To avoid headaches, ensure your setup meets these specs:
– OS: macOS 10.15+, Ubuntu 20.04+/Debian 10+, or Windows 10+ (with WSL 1/2 or Git for Windows).
– Hardware: At least 4GB RAM (more for big projects).
– Software: Node.js 18+ (only if using npm install). Internet access for auth and AI calls.
– Shell: Bash, Zsh, or Fish recommended.
– Account: A Claude.ai Pro/Max subscription or Anthropic Console with billing enabled.
Optional but handy: Install ripgrep for faster file searches (Claude Code bundles it, but verify with the version command).
Run a quick check post-install with the doctor command to flag any issues.
Step 1: Installation
Installation is a breeze-pick your OS and method. We’ll cover the native approach as the default, plus alternatives. Head to your terminal and let’s roll.
macOS or Linux (Including WSL on Windows)
1. Open your terminal.
2. Run the stable installer.
3. The script adds Claude Code to your PATH. If prompted, run the suggested export command.
Add this to your shell config file for permanence.
Windows (PowerShell Recommended)
1. Fire up PowerShell as Administrator.
2. Run the stable installer.
3. It installs to the local programs directory. Update your PATH if needed via System Properties > Environment Variables.
Alternative: Homebrew (macOS/Linux)
Use the install command for Homebrew.
NPM Fallback (Cross-Platform, Node.js 18+ Required)
Use the global npm install command.
Avoid using sudo-it’s a security no-no.
Windows Native with Git Bash
If skipping WSL, grab Git for Windows. Set the env var for Git Bash path.
Verification: Type the version command. You should see the current version. If not, restart your terminal or check PATH.
For Alpine Linux users: Add required packages and set the builtin ripgrep env var.
Step 2: Authentication and Configuration
Claude Code needs your Anthropic creds to access the API. It’s secure-tokens are stored locally.
1. In your terminal, run the main command.
This launches the interactive session and prompts login.
2. Choose your auth method:
– Claude.ai (Recommended): Log in via OAuth. Requires Pro/Max plan. It auto-creates a “Claude Code” workspace for billing tracking.
– Anthropic Console: For API users, link your account with pre-paid credits. No keys needed here.
– Enterprise: Bedrock/Vertex AI integration (see docs for env vars).
3. Authorize GitHub: Even solo devs create a free repo and connect it. Claude installs a GitHub app for repo access. Select your account and repo during setup.
4. Accept terms, confirm your working directory, and trust the codebase contents. Stick to recommended settings for now (customize later via the config file).
Env Var Tweaks (Optional):
– Disable auto-updates.
– Custom model: Edit the config file for preferences like temperature or max tokens.
Run the update command anytime for manual upgrades.
Step 3: Quickstart – Your First Session
Time to code! Navigate to a project dir and run the main command.
You’ll land on the welcome screen. Slash commands are your friends:
– Help: Full command list.
– Login: Switch accounts.
– Resume: Pick up old chats.
– Init: Scans your repo, generates a summary file, and builds context. Do this first on new projects!
Ask away:
– What does this project do? (Claude scans files on-the-fly.)
– Explain the folder structure.
– Refactor this function for efficiency. (Point to a file.)
For cleanup tasks: After init, prompt: “Check for duplicate files and remove them.”
