Claude Code

Claude Code is a coding assistant that works right inside the black-screen text window on your computer, known as a terminal. When someone types something like "fix this bug," it finds the relevant files on its own, reads them, edits the code, and even runs it to check whether the fix actually works. Rather than just offering advice from the sidelines, it acts more like an assistant who does the hands-on work itself.

At first, it asked for permission before every single change — constantly checking "is it okay if I do this?" More recently, the default has shifted so that it just goes ahead on its own unless the action is irreversible or risky, only pausing to check in for those bigger moments. It's similar to a junior developer who handles small tasks independently but still runs major decisions by their manager.

The tool runs on Anthropic's own AI models and, by default, works by communicating with Anthropic's servers. That said, people have also been experimenting with connecting it to other models downloaded onto a personal computer, so it can be used without an internet connection.

In articles, you'll see phrasing like "Claude Code switches to auto mode by default." A common misunderstanding is thinking auto mode means it does absolutely everything without asking. In reality, it still checks in with the user before irreversible or destructive actions, or anything that reaches beyond the user's own computer. In other words, only the minor, repetitive confirmations have been skipped — the user still keeps control at the risky moments.

After installing Claude Code on your computer, run it in a terminal and try talking to it like this:

"Look through the code in this folder and summarize what kind of project it is."

"Add an installation instructions section to the README file."

It's safer to start by having it ask for confirmation before taking action, watch how it handles different tasks, and gradually give it more room to work independently over time.