Guide

A real setup for vibe coding, for beginners

AI app builders are a great start. When you want more control, this is the setup most people move to. Every piece has a free option.

The five pieces

• A code editor (VS Code): where your app's files live and where you work.
• An AI assistant in the editor (for example GitHub Copilot or Claude): you ask in plain English, it changes the code.
• Git and GitHub: keep every version of your work and a safe copy online.
• Node.js: runs your app on your computer while you build.
• Hosting (for example Cloudflare): puts your app on the internet, updating whenever you save.

How they fit together

1. You ask your AI for a change in the editor.
2. You see it in your browser on your own computer.
3. When you like it, you save it to GitHub.
4. Hosting notices and publishes it.

What it costs

The editor, Git, GitHub, Node.js and starter hosting are free. AI assistants have free plans with limits and paid plans for heavy use. Your own domain name is optional, usually about $10 a year.

Getting set up

You can install each piece yourself using the links above, or follow a guided path that checks every step.