How Do I Install Claude Code?

Claude Code installation takes about two minutes and works on macOS, Linux, and Windows. The native install (recommended) is a single-line command that auto-updates in the background. You'll also need a Claude subscription (Pro, Max, Teams, or Enterprise), a Claude Console account, or access through a supported cloud provider to log in after installation.

Context

Installation is your first step to using Claude Code as an agentic coding tool. Before installing, check your system requirements: 4GB+ RAM, an internet connection, and one of these operating systems — macOS 13.0+, Windows 10 1809+, Ubuntu 20.04+, Debian 10+, or Alpine 3.19+. On Windows, you'll need Git for Windows installed first; ripgrep is an additional dependency (usually included automatically). Claude Code runs in your terminal with Bash, Zsh, PowerShell, or CMD.

The native installer is recommended because it automatically updates you to the latest version in the background. If you prefer package managers like Homebrew or WinGet, you'll need to manually run upgrade commands periodically. Note: NPM installation is deprecated — use one of the methods below instead.

Practical Steps

Step 1: Install Claude Code

Choose your platform:

macOS/Linux (Native Install — Recommended):

curl -fsSL https://claude.ai/install.sh | bash

Windows PowerShell (Native Install — Recommended):

irm https://claude.ai/install.ps1 | iex

Windows CMD:

curl -fsSL https://claude.ai/install.cmd -o install.cmd && install.cmd && del install.cmd

Homebrew (macOS/Linux):

brew install --cask claude-code

Note: Run brew upgrade claude-code periodically to get updates.

WinGet (Windows):

winget install Anthropic.ClaudeCode

Note: Run winget upgrade Anthropic.ClaudeCode periodically to get updates.

Step 2: Log In

Open your terminal and run:

claude

You'll be prompted to log in on first use. Follow the prompts with your Claude Pro, Max, Teams, Enterprise account, or Claude Console credentials.

Step 3: Verify Installation

After logging in, you're ready to use Claude Code. Navigate to any code project and run claude again to start an interactive session.

Related Questions

• How do I check if Claude Code is installed correctly?
• How do I update Claude Code to the latest version?
• Can I install Claude Code on Windows without using PowerShell?

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