Install Claude Code

Claude Code is the AI assistant that lives inside your terminal. It reads your brain files, runs commands, manages your projects, and does the heavy lifting. This is the core piece that makes everything work.

Prerequisites

Before installing Claude Code, make sure you have:

You can use Claude Code with either a Claude Pro/Max subscription or an API key. The Pro plan is recommended - it's the most cost-effective way to start. If you hit usage limits, upgrade to the Max plan. Using an API key works but typically costs around 10x more.

Install Claude Code

Open your editor's terminal (Cmd + J on Mac) and run the install command for your platform.

Mac / Linux / WSL:

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

Windows PowerShell:

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

Mac (Homebrew alternative):

brew install --cask claude-code

The native installer (curl/PowerShell) is recommended because it auto-updates in the background. Homebrew installs need manual updates with brew upgrade claude-code.

For the full installation guide, platform-specific options, and troubleshooting, see the official Claude Code setup docs.

Verify Installation

After the install completes, type claude --version to confirm it's installed. You should see a version number.

Important: Login Method

When you first run claude, it will ask you to log in.

Choose "Claude.ai account" if you have a Pro or Max subscription. This is the recommended option and gives you the best value.

The other option ("Anthropic Console") uses an API key, which works but costs significantly more for the same usage. Stick with a Claude.ai subscription unless you have a specific reason to use the API.

What Claude Code Does

Claude Code is your AI partner inside the terminal. Tell it what you want in plain English and it handles the technical details:

Reads and understands all the files in your brain
Runs commands - installs dependencies, executes scripts, manages Git
Edits files - modifies your configuration, creates content, writes code
Searches the web for current information when needed
Executes skills - your brain's built-in capabilities like audits, drafts, research

You talk to Claude, Claude does the work.

Troubleshooting

"curl: command not found" (Mac) - Install Xcode Command Line Tools first: run xcode-select --install in the terminal.

Permission errors on Mac - Try the Homebrew method: brew install --cask claude-code.

Permission errors on Windows - Close your editor, right-click it, choose "Run as administrator", then try the install command again.

"claude: command not found" after install - Close and reopen your editor's terminal. Sometimes the terminal needs to refresh its path.

Other issues - See the official troubleshooting guide.

Next step: Start Claude Code