microsoft / microsoft/vscode-remote-release
Can't open VSCode in WSL while offline when there is an update
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Since Apr 23, 2026.
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Description
VSCode Version: 1.117
OS Version: wsl
Steps to Reproduce:
Make sure you are offline and don't have the latest version of vscode installed in WSL
Open WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)
run "code " to open vscode
Vscode will delete itself and then try to download update even if you are offline, and will be unusable until you can successfully download an update.
Does this issue occur when all extensions are disabled?: Yes
This issue is identical to the previously fixed #3839, and completely disables and uninstalls vscode if you are offline or have spotty internet.
One obvious solution is for the update script to not remove the old version until after the new version has been successfully downloaded, and to start the old version (with possible incompatibilities) in the meantime.
Contributor guide
First steps
- Read the whole issue, then the project's contributing guide.
- Comment on the issue to say you are picking it up — it saves two people doing the same work.
- Fork the repository and make your change on a branch.
- Open a pull request that references the issue number.
Assessment
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