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Asked: 2024-09-24T11:31:56+05:30 In: ,

What are the steps to install Visual Studio Code on an Ubuntu system?

I’ve been wanting to get into some coding projects, and I hear that Visual Studio Code is a great tool for that. But here’s the thing – I’m a bit of a newbie when it comes to setting things up on Ubuntu. My buddy uses Windows, and he says it’s super easy for him to get VS Code running, but I feel a bit lost over here.

Can anyone walk me through the steps to install Visual Studio Code on my Ubuntu system? I mean, I’ve done some basic stuff like updating packages and installing software before, but I’m just not sure about the best approach for this particular program. Should I go through the terminal, or is there a GUI way to do this?

Also, I’ve heard there’s a snap version? I’m kinda familiar with snap packages, but is it better to install it that way or through a .deb file? What are the pros and cons? I just don’t want to mess it up and end up with a bunch of errors.

And how about dependencies? Will I need to install anything else to make sure it works properly? I’ve read a few blog posts, but they go into so much technical detail that I get lost and overwhelmed. I’m more about understanding the ‘why’ and ‘how’ rather than just blindly following a command.

If you’ve installed it on Ubuntu, could you maybe list out the steps you took? I’d appreciate any tips you might have, especially regarding any common pitfalls to watch out for. I’m just trying to set things up so I can focus on writing and learning instead of troubleshooting installation issues.

Thanks a ton for any help! I’m looking forward to getting started with some coding as soon as I can get Visual Studio Code up and running smoothly.

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    2 Answers


    1. To install Visual Studio Code on your Ubuntu system, you have a couple of straightforward options – using the terminal or a GUI method. If you’re comfortable with the terminal, the Snap package is a quick and efficient way to get it installed. Start by opening the terminal and running the command: sudo snap install --classic code. This will install the latest version of VS Code along with its dependencies. The Snap version has the advantage of auto-updating when new versions are released, ensuring you always have the latest features and security patches. If you prefer a .deb file installation, you can download it from the official Visual Studio Code website. This method may require you to manually handle updates, but it integrates well with the Ubuntu Software Center, allowing for a more familiar installation experience if you’re accustomed to using GUIs.

      Regarding dependencies, Visual Studio Code typically doesn’t require additional packages beyond what is included in the installation. However, if you encounter issues running certain extensions, you might need to install some language servers or runtimes corresponding to the languages you’re working with. Common pitfalls to watch out for include ensuring that your system is fully updated before installation and verifying that your Snap services are running correctly if you choose that route. If you run into errors, refer to the terminal output for clues – it usually indicates what’s missing or what went wrong. By following these steps, you should be able to set up Visual Studio Code without significant complications, paving the way for an enjoyable coding experience.







    2. Installing Visual Studio Code on Ubuntu


      Installing Visual Studio Code on Ubuntu

      Here’s a simple guide to get you started with installing Visual Studio Code (VS Code) on Ubuntu. Don’t worry, we’ll keep it straightforward!

      Option 1: Using the Terminal (Recommended)

      1. Open your terminal. You can do this by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.
      2. First, make sure your system is up-to-date. Run: 
        sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
      3. Now, add the Microsoft GPG key and repository: 
                    wget -qO - https://packages.microsoft.com/keys/microsoft.asc | sudo apt-key add -
            sudo add-apt-repository "deb [arch=amd64] https://packages.microsoft.com/repos/vscode stable main"
      4. Finally, install VS Code using: 
        sudo apt install code
      5. Once the installation is complete, you can open VS Code from your applications menu or by typing code in the terminal.

      Option 2: Using Snap

      If you prefer Snap packages, which are easy to manage, you can install VS Code this way too:

      1. Install VS Code with the following command: 
        sudo snap install --classic code
      2. After installation, run it by typing code in the terminal or find it in your applications.

      Comparing .deb vs. Snap

      Both methods work well, but here’s a quick comparison:

      • .deb file: Native to Debian-based distros. Generally faster startup but requires manual updates.
      • Snap: More convenient for updates, and isolation from system libraries which can prevent some conflicts but might be slightly slower.

      Dependencies

      You usually won’t need to install additional dependencies for VS Code. If anything is required, the installation process will prompt you.

      Common Pitfalls

      • Ensure you have a stable internet connection during installation.
      • Running commands with sudo might prompt you for your password; just type it in (you won’t see it appear).
      • If you’re using Snap and it doesn’t work right away, restart your computer to ensure everything is set up correctly.

      Once you have VS Code up and running, dive into some tutorials or documentation to start coding. You got this!


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