Installation

Otto integrates with VS Code through a lightweight extension that connects to the Otto MCP server. This guide covers installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.

Otto sign-in form with email and password fields — used during VS Code extension activation

System Requirements

VS Code 1.85 or later
An AI coding assistant — Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, or Cursor (you bring your own subscription)
Node.js 18+ (required for Claude Code CLI; other agents have their own requirements)
Internet connection (Otto runs as a cloud-hosted MCP server)

Install the Extension

Search for Otto in the VS Code Extensions marketplace and click Install. The extension adds an Otto panel to the sidebar and registers MCP server commands.

How It Works

Otto is a cloud-hosted MCP server. The VS Code extension is a thin client that communicates with the server. When you request an assessment or recommendation:

The extension sends context about your project to the Otto MCP server
Otto's proprietary framework processes the request server-side
Computed results are returned to your local environment
Your AI coding assistant (Claude Code, GitHub Copilot, or Cursor) implements the recommendations using your subscription

Your source code never leaves your machine. Otto only receives metadata and context needed to generate recommendations.

Configuration

Otto works out of the box after signing in. Advanced configuration options will be available in future releases.

Troubleshooting

Extension not connecting

Check the Otto Output panel (View > Output > Otto) for error details. Ensure you are signed in with Otto: Sign In.

Authentication expired

Run Otto: Sign In from the command palette to re-authenticate. Sessions expire after 30 days of inactivity.

No recommendations appearing

Ensure your application is registered in the Otto dashboard and the current repo is associated with it.