VS Code has stopped installing extensions altogether. I first noticed it while trying to install Simple React Snippets, but the same thing happens with every extension I try. I've already cleared the extension cache and attempted to install a downloaded VSIX file, but neither helped. I haven't installed an extension in quite a while, so I'm wondering whether a recent VS Code update caused this or whether there's another setting, permission, or network issue I should check. Any suggestions?
3 Answers
Try installing the extension from the command line with `code --install-extension publisher.extension-id`. The CLI usually prints the actual error instead of the graphical interface failing silently. Also check that VS Code isn’t being run as administrator and that a work or school network, VPN, firewall, or security tool isn’t blocking the marketplace.
Before guessing, check the error details in View → Output and select “Log (Window),” then try the installation again. Common causes include marketplace traffic being blocked by a corporate network, incorrect permissions on the extensions directory, or using a VS Code-compatible build that doesn’t have access to Microsoft’s marketplace. On Windows, extensions are normally stored under `%USERPROFILE%.vscodeextensions`; on macOS and Linux, they’re usually under `~/.vscode/extensions`. The command-line installation is useful because it exposes the specific failure.
If the extension directory is corrupted, close VS Code and rename the extensions folder instead of deleting it. On Windows it’s typically `C:Users.vscodeextensions`; the equivalent folder is under your home directory on macOS and Linux. Restart VS Code so it creates a fresh folder, then test with a small extension. If that still doesn’t work, rename the editor’s user-state folder too and inspect the developer console for connection or permission errors.
I wasn’t sure where the state folder was, but installing through the CLI solved the issue. I’ll keep the folder-reset method in mind if it happens again.
The CLI installation worked and showed me the problem. Thanks for the help!