Claude Code Free Setup Guide
Set up Claude Code with Ollama so you can run a local coding workflow without paying API credits for every session.
This guide shows you the cleanest way to run Claude Code with Ollama so you can keep the workflow local, reduce privacy risk, and avoid paying for every coding session.
Main Outcome
Install Ollama, pull one coding model, install Claude Code, and launch the workflow in the right order.
Who It Helps
Developers and builders who want a practical local coding-agent setup without unnecessary cost friction.
What It Covers
The 3-step setup, model picks, fallback manual route, and the most common troubleshooting fixes.
Inside The Guide
- Step 1: Install Ollama on Mac, Linux, or Windows/WSL.
- Step 2: Pull a coding model like
qwen3.5. - Step 3: Install Claude Code and launch it against that model.
- Fallback Path: Use manual environment variables if the shortcut launch flow does not fit your setup.
- Troubleshooting: Fix command-not-found issues, model mismatches, and local connection problems.
Copy-Paste Commands
These are the key commands from the PDF. Keep the page summary here, but always expose the most useful commands directly on the website so people can copy them without downloading first.
1. Install Ollama
curl -fsSL https://ollama.com/install.sh | sh2. Pull a coding model
ollama pull qwen3.53. Install Claude Code
npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code4. Launch Claude Code with Ollama
ollama launch claude --model qwen3.5Fallback: manual Ollama endpoint route
export ANTHROPIC_AUTH_TOKEN=ollama
export ANTHROPIC_API_KEY=""
export ANTHROPIC_BASE_URL=http://localhost:11434
claude --model qwen3.5Why this matters: the original social post is intentionally fast. This resource gives you the exact order and commands so you can actually finish the setup.
Want the complete version?
This is a summary. Download the full PDF for deep-dive examples, complete frameworks, and ready-to-use prompts.