> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://modelmesh.gitbook.io/cline-zhong-wen-ban-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://modelmesh.gitbook.io/cline-zhong-wen-ban-docs/getting-started/installing-cline.md).

# Installing Cline

Cline is a VS Code extension that brings AI-powered coding assistance directly to your editor. Install using one of these methods:

#### Installation Options <a href="#installation-options" id="installation-options"></a>

* **VS Code Marketplace (Recommended):** Fastest method for standard VS Code and Cursor users.
* **Open VSX Registry:** For VS Code-compatible editors like VSCodium.

#### 🛠️ VS Code Marketplace: Step-by-Step Setup <a href="#vs-code-marketplace-step-by-step-setup" id="vs-code-marketplace-step-by-step-setup"></a>

Follow these steps to get Cline up and running:

1. **Open VS Code:** Launch the VS Code application.

   > ⚠️ **Note:** If VS Code shows "Running extensions might...", click "Allow".
2. **Open Your Cline Folder:** In VS Code, open the Cline folder you created in Documents.
3. **Navigate to Extensions:** Click on the Extensions icon in the Activity Bar on the side of VS Code (`Ctrl + Shift + X` or `Cmd + Shift + X`).
4. **Search for 'Cline':** In the Extensions search bar, type `Cline`.

![](https://docs.cline.bot/~gitbook/image?url=https%3A%2F%2F3321249260-files.gitbook.io%2F%7E%2Ffiles%2Fv0%2Fb%2Fgitbook-x-prod.appspot.com%2Fo%2Fspaces%252Ff8Oh1Lcy6yWYq1caYESV%252Fuploads%252Fz3hbpf0wxPFRJ15YNqPs%252Fimage.png%3Falt%3Dmedia%26token%3Dd716fc47-8ac5-41dc-85e8-4ac257404c02\&width=768\&dpr=4\&quality=100\&sign=44c11482\&sv=2)*VS Code marketplace with Cline extension ready to install*

1. **Install the Extension:** Click the "Install" button next to the Cline extension.
2. **Open Cline:**
   * Click the Cline icon in the Activity Bar.
   * Or, use the command palette (`Ctrl/Cmd + Shift + P`) and type "Cline: Open In New Tab" for a better view.
3. **Troubleshooting:** If you don't see the Cline icon, try restarting VS Code.

> ✅ **Pro Tip:** You should see the Cline chat window appear in your VS Code editor!

#### 🌐 Open VSX Registry <a href="#open-vsx-registry" id="open-vsx-registry"></a>

For VS Code-compatible editors without Marketplace access (like VSCodium and Windsurf):

1. Open your editor.
2. Access the Extensions view.
3. Search for "Cline".
4. Select "Cline" by saoudrizwan and click **Install**.
5. Reload if prompted.

#### 👤 Creating Your Cline Account <a href="#creating-your-cline-account" id="creating-your-cline-account"></a>

Now that you have Cline installed, let's get you set up with your account:

1. **Sign In to Cline:**
   * Click the **Sign In** button in the Cline extension.
   * You'll be taken to [app.cline.bot](https://app.cline.bot/) to create your account.
2. **Start with Free Credits:**
   * No credit card needed!
3. **Available AI Models:**
   * Anthropic Claude 3.5-Sonnet (recommended for coding)
   * DeepSeek Chat (cost-effective alternative)
   * Google Gemini 2.0 Flash
   * And more — all through your Cline account.
4. *

#### 💻 Your First Interaction with Cline <a href="#your-first-interaction-with-cline" id="your-first-interaction-with-cline"></a>

You're ready to start building! Copy and paste this prompt into the Cline chat window:

Copy

```
Hey Cline! Could you help me create a new project folder called "hello-world" in my Cline directory and make a simple webpage that says "Hello World" in big blue text?
```

> ✅ **Pro Tip:** Cline will help you create the project folder and set up your first webpage!

#### 🧩 Tips for Working with Cline <a href="#tips-for-working-with-cline" id="tips-for-working-with-cline"></a>

* **Ask Questions:** If you're unsure about something, ask Cline!
* **Use Screenshots:** Cline can understand images — show him what you're working on.
* **Copy and Paste Errors:** Share error messages in the chat for solutions.
* **Speak Plainly:** Use your own words — Cline will translate them into code.

#### 🫂 Still Struggling? <a href="#still-struggling" id="still-struggling"></a>

Join our Discord community and engage with our team and other Cline users directly.