> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://extension.js.org/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Getting started with Extension.js

> Ship your first browser extension quickly with Extension.js, then level up with official templates and workflow guides as your project grows.

## Two tracks

Extension.js has two getting-started tracks. This page covers the **CLI track**:
develop, run, and build extensions on your machine. If you instead want the hosted
**platform track** (workspace, import or AI generation, preview, then CI build and
store submission on extension.dev), see
[Get started with the Extension.dev platform](/docs/getting-started/platform).

## Who this path is for

* **New to extension development:** [Create your first extension](/docs/getting-started/create-your-first-extension)
* **Exploring quickly with existing samples:** [Get started immediately](/docs/getting-started/immediately)
* **Choosing a starting stack:** [Templates](/docs/getting-started/templates)
* **Shipping to the stores via extension.dev:** [Platform getting started](/docs/getting-started/platform)
* **Comparing frameworks (WXT, etc.):** [Extension.js vs WXT](/docs/compare/extension-js-vs-wxt)

## First successful outcome

<Steps>
  <Step title="Scaffold or run an extension project">
    Use `extension create` or choose a template to start from.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Launch dev and load the extension">
    Run `extension dev` and load the build output in a browser target.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Verify update behavior">
    Make one change and confirm the extension reloads.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Build production output">
    Run `extension build` for at least one browser.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Recommended reading flow

1. [Get started immediately](/docs/getting-started/immediately)
2. [Create your first extension](/docs/getting-started/create-your-first-extension)
3. [Templates](/docs/getting-started/templates)
4. [Commands overview](/docs/commands/index)

## Next steps

* Learn command choices in [Commands reference](/docs/commands/index).
* Configure project defaults in [Extension configuration](/docs/features/extension-configuration).
* Validate release readiness with [Workflows](/docs/workflows/index).

## Video walkthrough