HTML setup and installation
Step-by-Step HTML Setup and Installation
1. Choose a Text Editor
To write HTML code, you need a text editor. Some popular options are:
- Notepad (Windows) – pre-installed
- TextEdit (Mac) – built-in
- VS Code (Highly Recommended) – beginner-friendly and professional
- Sublime Text or Atom
👉 If you are just starting, Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is the best choice.
2. Install a Web Browser
You’ll need a browser to run your HTML file. Some of the best options are:
- Google Chrome
- Mozilla Firefox
- Microsoft Edge
- Safari (for Mac users)
3. Write Your First HTML Code
Open your text editor and type the following code:
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<title>My First HTML Page</title>
</head>
<body>
<h1>Hello World!</h1>
<p>This is my very first HTML program.</p>
</body>
</html>
4. Save the File
- Go to File → Save As
- Save it as
index.html
- File type: All Files
- Encoding: UTF-8
5. Run the HTML File in a Browser
- Right-click on your
index.html
file - Select Open With → Browser (Chrome/Firefox/Edge)
- You’ll see your first webpage appear 🎉
📂 HTML Setup on Different Platforms
🖥 Windows
- Use Notepad or VS Code
- Save file with
.html
extension - Open it in a browser
🍏 Mac
- Use TextEdit (switch to plain text mode) or VS Code
- Save with
.html
extension - Open in Safari/Chrome
💻 Linux
- Use editors like Gedit, Nano, or VS Code
- Save as
.html
- Run in Firefox or Chrome
Best Practices for HTML Setup
- Always save files with the
.html
extension - Use proper indentation for clean code
- Install Live Server extension in VS Code for auto-refresh
- Keep your HTML, CSS, and JS files in separate folders for better project management
FAQs
Do I need to install HTML on my computer?
No. HTML is already supported by all browsers. You only need a text editor and a browser.
Which is the best software for HTML coding?
Beginners should start with VS Code.
How can I run HTML without installing anything?
You can write HTML in Notepad/TextEdit and run it directly in your browser.
Can I write HTML on my phone?
Yes. Apps like Acode and Spck Editor allow you to write and run HTML on mobile.
Conclusion
Setting up and installing HTML is simple and beginner-friendly. With just a text editor and a browser, you can create your first webpage in minutes. Once you master the basics, you’ll be ready to move toward CSS and JavaScript for building full-featured websites.