Getting Started
Install GRID from the downloads page, configure your AI provider, and open your first project. Everything here assumes you are using the released GRID IDE. If you need to build from source, see the GRID and GRID-BUILDER repositories.
Installation
Mobile Companion
Monitor builds and manage agents from your phone.
Command Line Interface
Prefer the terminal? Install the GRID CLI from the downloads page to run AI-assisted commands, manage projects, and automate workflows.
View CLI Guide →Installation Notes (Unsigned Code)
GRID releases are not yet code-signed. Your operating system may show a warning. Bypass it as follows:
- • SmartScreen warning: click More info, then Run anyway.
- • If blocked: right-click the installer, Properties, then check Unblock.
- • Gatekeeper warning: open System Settings, Privacy & Security, then Open Anyway.
- • Or remove the quarantine attribute in Terminal if you prefer.
- • Make the AppImage executable using your file manager or terminal.
- • Then run the AppImage to start GRID.
First Run
Launch GRID and sign in with your account to sync settings. The welcome screen lets you open a folder or start from a recent project.
Opening Your First Project
Use File, then Open Folder, and choose your project directory. GRID will index the codebase so the AI can understand your project. Indexing may take a moment for larger repos. Once done, you can use Chat, Autocomplete, and other AI features in that folder.
AI Provider Setup
Configure at least one AI provider to use Chat, Autocomplete, and other AI features. Open Settings, then go to the AI section. Add your provider (e.g. Anthropic, OpenAI) and enter your API key. For local models, use Ollama: start Ollama on your machine, then add it in Settings.
| Provider | Best For | Where to set up |
|---|---|---|
| Anthropic (Claude) | Complex reasoning and code generation | Settings, AI, Anthropic |
| OpenAI (GPT-4) | General purpose | Settings, AI, OpenAI |
| Ollama | Local, private, free | Start Ollama, then add in Settings |
Project Configuration
To get the most out of GRID, add a project rules file and optionally a project doc file in your project root. They help the AI understand your context and standards. Learn more in the Project Rules guide.
Project rules file
Define project-specific rules and preferences for the AI (e.g. use strict mode, prefer functional components, write docs for public APIs). The IDE reads this file automatically.
Project doc file
A markdown file describing your project overview, architecture, and tech stack. The AI uses it as context when you chat or edit.
Ignore file
Exclude files or folders from AI analysis and Auto-Debug. List patterns (e.g. build output, dependencies) similar to a gitignore file.
Tip: Ask the AI chat to create a project rules file and project doc for this project; it will generate them from your codebase.