Microsoft Visual Studio code extensions play an important role in the editor’s convenience and workflow. They increase productivity with additional features, language support and tools. They help customize the IDE, increase efficiency and help stay updated with new updates in software development.

You can install Visual Studio Code Extensions using the ‘code’ command-line interface (CLI)

STEP 1: Ensuring the ‘code’ CLI is present or not

Visual Studio Code initially adds the ‘code’ CLI during the installation phase into the system’s PATH. But just in case, if it is not present there, you can also manually add it. On macOS and Linux systems, you have to add Visual Studio Code to your PATH by running the following:

export PATH="$PATH:/Applications/Visual Studio Code.app/Contents/Resources/app/bin"

You have to replace “Applications/Visual Studio Code.app/Contents/Resources/app/bin” with the right path where your Visual Studio Code is installed in your system.

STEP 2: Installing the Extensions

After the ‘code’ CLI is installed you can use to install Visual Studio Code extensions by running the following:

code --install-extension <extension-id>

You have to replace “<extension-id>” with the ID of the extension you want to install and use.

Visual Studio Code Marketplace page has the IDs for various extensions. (usually in URL or in the list of extension’s page)

Examples

1. To install Python extension you have to run the following:

code --install-extension ms-python.python

2. To install multiple extensions at the same time, you have to type them after “–install-extension” separated by spaces, like the following:

code --install-extension ms-python.python johnpapa.angular-essentials

3. To install a specific version you can specify the same as following:

code --install-extension ms-python.python --version 2022.1.0

Once the installation is complete, you can open Visual Studio Code from Command Line by running “code” into it and use the extension endlessly and efficiently.

How to install VS Code Extensions from Command line – FAQs

What to do if extension not working after successful installation?

Always remember to restart the Visual Studio Code after installing the extensions for their effective working and Update every time a new version of the extension is released for its smooth working.

Where to get various extension IDs?

Visual Studio Code Marketplace page has the IDs for various extensions. (usually in URL or in the list of extension’s page)

Can I uninstall extensions using the command line?

Yes, using “code –uninstall-extension <extension-id>” in Command line will remove the extension.