two ways to run Claude Code: in the Claude desktop app (this guide, the simplest, no editor or terminal), or in VS Code. prefer the editor? see how to set up Claude Code | VS Code.
download the Claude app
- go to claude.com/download and download the app for your computer (Mac or Windows).
- on Mac: open the downloaded file and drag Claude into your Applications folder, then open it from there.
- on Windows: run the downloaded installer, then launch Claude from the Start menu.
Windows only: install Git first
on Windows, the Code tab needs a small free tool called Git. most Macs already have it, so Mac users can skip this step.
- download it from git-scm.com/downloads/win and run the installer, the default options are fine.
- important: quit and reopen the Claude app after installing Git, or the Code tab won’t work yet.
open the Code tab and pick a folder
- at the top of the app, click the Code tab (it sits next to Chat and Cowork). if it asks you to upgrade, your plan isn’t a paid one yet.
- make sure the environment is set to Local, not Remote. Local means it works on your own computer, which is what you need.
- click Select folder, then create or choose an empty folder to work in (name it
edgeful).
you're ready
Claude Code is now running in the app. head to set up API with your AI agent and paste the prompt — it connects the edgeful API, installs the dashboard skill, and makes a verified first call.
Claude starts in Ask permissions mode — it shows you each change or command and waits for you to click Accept before doing it. that’s normal and keeps you in control; just approve to continue.