Claude Code is the first choice for many developers thanks to its flexibility and advanced AI coding capabilities. If you haven’t or don’t know how to set it up, this article is for you. Here’s how to install Claude Code CLI natively on both Windows and macOS.
Requirements and Preparation
Before installation, ensure your environment aligns with Claude Code’s system requirements. The CLI supports macOS (10.15+), Linux (Ubuntu 20.04+/Debian 10+, Alpine for native builds), and Windows 10+ (via WSL or Git Bash). A minimum of 4GB RAM is recommended, alongside an active internet connection.
Most features run best on modern terminals like Bash, Zsh, or Fish, though Windows users can leverage PowerShell or Git Bash for smooth operation. Also, install Node.js 18+—the primary prerequisite for all npm-based installations.
Fast and Flexible Installation
Claude Code CLI offers two primary installation routes: npm and native binary. For most users, npm is the optimal path:
bash
npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code
This command initiates a secure, user-level installation. Importantly, avoid using sudo npm install -g to prevent permission and security risks. If native binaries are preferred, use these platform-specific commands:
- macOS/Linux/WSL:
bash
curl -fsSL https://claude.ai/install.sh | bash
- Windows PowerShell:
powershell
irm https://claude.ai/install.ps1 | iex
Native installations are ideal for environments where Node.js is unavailable or for those wanting faster startup times and easier updates. After installation, run claude doctor to verify everything works smoothly.
Starting Your First Claude Code Session
Launch Claude Code CLI by navigating into your project directory:
bash
cd your-awesome-project
claude
You’ll be greeted with an interactive prompt where you can converse directly with Claude Code. It recognizes file structures, analyzes technologies, and answers project-specific questions like:
“What does this project do?”
“Where is the main entry point?”
“Explain the folder structure.”
Claude securely stores authentication credentials, whether using the default Anthropic Console login, a Pro/Max plan, or enterprise integrations with AWS and GCP.
How to Install Claude Code CLI on macOS
Setting up Claude Code CLI on a Mac is quick and simple, with two main installation methods to suit different preferences.
System Prerequisites
- macOS 10.15 (Catalina) or later is supported.
- Ensure Node.js v18 or newer is installed if you plan to use the npm method.
- You’ll need an Anthropic API key, available from the Anthropic Console, for authentication after installing.
Installation via npm (Recommended)
- Open the Terminal app.
- Run the following command to install globally
bash
npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code - Do not use sudo for this command, as it causes permission issues.
- If you encounter permissions errors, consider using a user-local npm directory (npm documentation covers these details).
Native Binary Installation
Alternatively, for a fast and dependency-free installation:
- Open Terminal.
- Enter:
bash
curl -fsSL https://claude.ai/install.sh | bash - This script auto-downloads and installs the latest stable release of Claude Code CLI.
- To install the latest version or a specific release, append arguments:
- Latest: bash -s latest
- Specific version: bash -s 1.0.58
Configuration and Verification
After installation, configure your API key:
bash
claude config
Or set it as an environment variable in your shell profile:
bash
export ANTHROPIC_API_KEY=”your-api-key-here”
Test your installation by running:
bash
claude –version
claude doctor
These commands will confirm a successful setup and check for required dependencies.
macOS users, thanks to robust Unix tooling and first-class support, can expect a seamless experience with Claude Code CLI—empowering faster, smarter, AI-driven development directly from their Mac.
Powerful Features for Developers
Claude Code excels at handling typical development tasks conversationally:
- Code Summarization: Ask what your project does or request folder explanations.
- Bug Fixes & Feature Implementation: Describe a bug or a desired feature—Claude finds and modifies the code after confirming proposed changes.
- Git Management: Execute git operations like committing changes or creating branches with conversational commands.
- Testing & Refactoring: Request new tests, code reviews, or module refactors effortlessly.
The CLI supports tab-completion, command history, and slash commands (/help, /clear), making the experience intuitive and fast. Updates apply automatically, but can also be managed manually for those wanting control over their development tools.
The Bottom Line
With flexible installation, strong platform support, and a feature-rich conversational interface, Claude Code CLI is redefining what it means to code with AI. It helps developers focus on creativity and problem-solving, making tedious tasks easier with a powerful AI partner. That said, IDEs such as this may still be the better option for many (selective use cases). Bind AI IDE, for example, offers you models from Claude, OpenAI, Gemini, and DeepSeek, all within an integrated system that also supports GitHub integration. Try it here.