Setting up editor

To write code, you need an editor. For back-end develompent we typically use an IDE. A code editor like VS Code offers essential features for code editing, such as syntax highlighting and extensions. In contrast, an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) provides a complete development ecosystem with advanced tools, debugging, project management, and language-specific support. IDEs are more powerful but heavier, while code editors are lightweight and flexible for various languages.

The industry standard for writing JVM based code is IntelliJ IDEA. It is a powerful IDE for Java and Kotlin development. It is developed by JetBrains, a company known for its suite of developer tools for a wide range of programming languages. IntelliJ IDEA is available in two editions: Community and Ultimate. The Community edition is free and open-source, while the Ultimate edition is a paid version with additional features.

Installing IntelliJ IDEA Using JetBrains Toolbox

JetBrains Toolbox is a convenient way to install, manage, and update JetBrains IDEs, including IntelliJ IDEA, across multiple platforms. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to install IntelliJ IDEA using JetBrains Toolbox.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following prerequisites:

• An active internet connection.
• A JetBrains account (for licensing and product activation).

Steps

Step 1: Download JetBrains Toolbox

1. Visit the JetBrains Toolbox download page at https://www.jetbrains.com/toolbox-app/download/ (opens in a new tab).

2. Download the appropriate version of JetBrains Toolbox for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).

Step 2: Install JetBrains Toolbox

1. Run the installer you just downloaded.

2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. This typically involves selecting the installation directory and agreeing to the license terms.

Step 3: Launch JetBrains Toolbox

1. Once the installation is complete, launch JetBrains Toolbox from your applications menu or Start menu, depending on your operating system.

2. Sign in to your JetBrains account or create one if you don't have an account yet. You'll need this account to manage licenses and product activations.

Step 4: Install IntelliJ IDEA

1. In the JetBrains Toolbox window, search for "IntelliJ IDEA" in the search bar.

2. Select "IntelliJ IDEA" from the list of available JetBrains IDEs.

3. Click the "Install" button next to IntelliJ IDEA.

4. Choose the edition of IntelliJ IDEA you want to install (Community or Ultimate) and click "Install."

5. Wait for JetBrains Toolbox to download and install IntelliJ IDEA. The installation progress will be displayed in the Toolbox window.

6. Once the installation is complete, you can launch IntelliJ IDEA directly from JetBrains Toolbox by clicking the "Run" button next to IntelliJ IDEA.

Step 5: Activate IntelliJ IDEA (If Necessary)

1. When you first launch IntelliJ IDEA, you may need to activate it with your JetBrains account.

2. Sign in with your JetBrains account credentials.

3. If you have a valid license, IntelliJ IDEA will be activated automatically. If not, you can choose to evaluate the IDE for free or purchase a license.

Step 6: Start Using IntelliJ IDEA

1. You've successfully installed and activated IntelliJ IDEA using JetBrains Toolbox.

2. You can now start creating and developing Java and Kotlin projects with IntelliJ IDEA.

Conclusion

JetBrains Toolbox simplifies the installation and management of JetBrains IDEs, making it easy to get started with powerful development tools like IntelliJ IDEA. With IntelliJ IDEA installed, you're ready to dive into Java and Kotlin backend development, as well as a wide range of other programming tasks.