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install-vscode-extension

Install VS Code extensions by ID using the installExtension command.

Updated Dec 26, 2025
Search Tags:#automation#vscode#cli#dev-tools#install#development-environment#extension-id
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/dthompsonfl/crispy-fishstick --skill install-vscode-extension-dthompsonfl
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: install-vscode-extension
Source: https://github.com/dthompsonfl/crispy-fishstick/tree/main/prompts/skills/install-vscode-extension
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/dthompsonfl/crispy-fishstick --skill install-vscode-extension-dthompsonfl

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

VS Code extensions are identified by their unique extension ID, which typically follows the format publisher.extensionName. For example, the Python extension by Microsoft has the ID ms-python.python.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Install extensions by ID using the workbench.extensions.installExtension command and pass in the extension ID. The args are of the format: [extensionId, { enable: true, installPreReleaseVersion: boolean }]
  • The pre-release vs stable version is chosen automatically when the user mentions it or when the environment is VS Code Insiders; otherwise, the stable version is installed.
  • Run that command via the copilot_runVscodeCommand tool, and set skipCheck to true to bypass existence checks in restricted environments.

Quick Start

Install the extension ms-python.python by ID using the installExtension command.

Frequently Asked Questions about install-vscode-extension

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I install a VS Code extension by ID from the command line?▼

To install a VS Code extension by ID, use the workbench.extensions.installExtension command with the publisher.extensionName format to trigger automated installation of the specified extension package.

What is the correct format for a VS Code extension ID when automating installation?▼

A VS Code extension ID follows the publisher.extensionName format, such as ms-python.python, which is passed as an argument to the installExtension command to target the correct package.

Can I install a pre-release version of a VS Code extension automatically?▼

Yes, you can install pre-release versions by passing the installPreReleaseVersion boolean argument, or it is chosen automatically when targeting a VS Code Insiders development environment.

How do I automate VS Code extension installation for onboarding new development machines?▼

Automate VS Code extension installation by executing the workbench.extensions.installExtension command through the copilot_runVscodeCommand tool, enabling quick and reliable configuration of new environments.

Why does VS Code extension installation fail in restricted environments?▼

VS Code extension installation may fail in restricted environments due to existence checks; setting the skipCheck parameter to true bypasses these checks to ensure deterministic execution.

Does the VS Code extension installer work with VS Code Insiders?▼

Yes, the installer works with VS Code Insiders and automatically selects the pre-release version of extensions when operating within that specific development environment.

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