Getting Started with Go#

Go is a versatile programming language used for a range of applications including complex backends, web applications, and cloud native applications.

You can run Go on your computer using the following two methods:

• Run Go online

• Install Go on your computer

In this tutorial, you will learn both methods.

#Run Go Online

To run Go code, you must have the Go compiler installed on your system. However, if you want to start immediately, you can use our free online Go compiler.

The online editor enables you to run Go code directly in your browser—no installation required.

#Install Go on Your Computer

For those who prefer to install C# on your computer, this guide will walk you through the installation process on Windows, macOS, or Linux (Ubuntu).

go version

go version

#Run Your First Go Program

There are a few things you'll need to set up for running your first Go program.

• Install the Required Extensions in VS Code

• Create a Go file

• Write Your Go Program

• Run Your Program

#Install the required Extensions in VS Code

Before you begin coding, ensure that the Code Runner and Go extension is installed in VS Code.

Open VS Code and click on Extensions on the left sidebar. Search for Code Runner and click on Install. The Code Runner extension will allow you to run and execute Go code within VS Code.

Similarly install the Go extension,

This extension provides Go language support, debugging, and more, helping you develop Go applications efficiently.

#Create a Go File

In VS Code, Click on the File in the top menu and then select New File.

Then, save this file with a .go extension by clicking on File again, then Save As, and type your filename ending in .go. (Here, we are saving it as main.go).

#Write Your Go Program

Now that you have created the file, it's time to start coding. Open the main.go file and write the following code:

package main;
import "fmt"

func main(){
    fmt.Println("Hello World!");
}

#Run Your Program

Now it's time to run your first Go program. Click the run button at the top right of the VS Code Window.

You should see Hello World! output to the console.

Now that you have set everything up to run the Go program on your computer, you'll be learning how the basic program works in Go in the next tutorial.