I originally thought the problem was limited to the Simple React Snippets extension, but VS Code now refuses to install any extension. I've already cleared the extension cache and tried downloading and installing a VSIX file, but neither helped. I haven't installed an extension in a while, so I'm wondering whether a recent update caused this or if there's another setting or system issue blocking installations. Any suggestions for diagnosing it?
3 Answers
If the logs point to corrupted local data, close VS Code completely and rename the extensions folder instead of deleting it. You can also rename the related application state folder so VS Code rebuilds both on startup. The exact location depends on your operating system, and your normal settings are stored separately. If a fresh extensions folder fixes the problem, reinstall the extensions or copy back only the ones you trust.
Try installing one from the command line: `code --install-extension publisher.extension-id`. The CLI usually prints the actual error instead of failing silently, which makes it much easier to identify the cause. Also check that VS Code isn’t being run as administrator, and consider whether a work or school network is blocking marketplace traffic.
The CLI method worked. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction!
Before changing folders, check the error details in View → Output and select “Log (Window),” then try the installation again. Common causes include a corporate VPN, proxy, firewall, security software, or insufficient permissions for the extensions directory. On Windows, the directory is usually `%USERPROFILE%.vscodeextensions`; on macOS and Linux, it’s typically `~/.vscode/extensions`. If you’re using VSCodium or another VS Code-based build, the official extension marketplace may not be enabled by default.
I’ll keep that in mind if the command-line installation stops working. Thanks!