Installing Claude Code

Install steps for Mac, Linux, and Windows, plus verifying everything works.

Claude Code needs Node.js and an Anthropic account. Installation is simple and takes under five minutes.

Prerequisites

Node.js version 18 or newer
A Claude.ai account (paid: Pro or Max)
A Terminal (built into Mac and Linux, or Windows Terminal)

Step 1. Install Claude Code via npm

npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code

Step 2. Verify the installation

claude --version

Step 3. Log in

claude login

Your Browser Will Open

The claude login command opens your browser so you can sign in with your Claude account. After you confirm, control returns to the Terminal automatically.