How to Install Claude Code on macOS, Windows, and Linux

Before you install

Claude Code is not difficult to install. Most installation problems come from an unprepared local environment. Before running any command, check these basics:

• Use a supported operating system: macOS, Linux, Windows, or WSL.
• Have a working terminal ready: Terminal on macOS, PowerShell/CMD/Git Bash/WSL on Windows.
• Make sure your Claude account can log in normally and that your region and subscription support the features you want to use.
• If you plan to install through npm, make sure Node.js 18+ is installed first.
• Keep the network stable during installation instead of switching networks repeatedly.

For a first-time setup, start with the current official installer. Avoid copying old commands from outdated tutorials without checking them, because Claude Code installation methods and desktop-app support can change over time.

macOS / Linux / WSL

macOS, Linux, and WSL can usually use the same installer flow. Open your terminal and run:

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

After installation, close the current terminal window and open a new one. This avoids a common issue where PATH has not refreshed yet and the system cannot find the claude command.

Windows

On Windows, you have three common choices: PowerShell, WinGet, or WSL. If you already use Linux-style tooling for web, Python, or Node projects, WSL 2 is often the cleanest option. If you prefer native Windows, try PowerShell or WinGet first.

PowerShell

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

WinGet

winget install Anthropic.ClaudeCode

WSL

Inside WSL, use the same command as Linux:

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

Verify the installation

Do not assume Claude Code is ready just because the installer finished. Run at least two checks.

First, confirm that the command is available:

claude --version

If it returns a version number, your system can find the claude command. Next, check the local environment:

claude doctor

claude doctor is useful because it checks common issues around authentication, environment variables, and terminal setup. If it reports a problem, follow that output first instead of repeatedly uninstalling and reinstalling.

Finally, start Claude Code itself:

claude

If the interactive interface opens, the basic installation and login flow are working.

Desktop app

If you prefer a graphical interface, download the Claude desktop app from Claude.com. Availability and features depend on your platform and subscription plan. I treat the desktop app as optional. For command-line use, the real checks are still claude --version, claude doctor, and claude.

Account and environment stability

Installing Claude Code is only the first step. For long-term use, keep your account, device, network, and payment setup stable. Read next: How to Reduce Claude Code Account Risk.

References

• Anthropic: Set up Claude Code
• Claude Code advanced setup
• Claude download