A VS Code extension that manages a local cache of npm packages to avoid redundant downloads across projects. This extension helps speed up your development workflow by maintaining a local repository of frequently used packages.
Features
Local Package Caching: Automatically caches npm packages in a local repository
Smart Installation: Checks local repository first, falls back to npm registry if needed
Version Management: Keeps track of package versions and suggests updates
Daily Update Checks: Automatically checks for package updates once per day
Workspace Integration: Seamlessly integrates with VS Code workspace commands
Commands
The extension provides the following commands accessible through the Command Palette (Ctrl+Shift+P):
Local NPM Repo: Install Package - Install a package from local repo or npm registry
Local NPM Repo: Check for Updates - Manually check for package updates
Local NPM Repo: Show Local Packages - Display all cached packages in local repository
How It Works
When you install a package, the extension first checks if it exists in your local repository
If found locally, it installs from the local cache (faster)
If not found locally, it downloads from npm registry and caches it for future use
The extension automatically checks for updates daily and suggests upgrades
Usage
Open a workspace with a Node.js project
Use the Command Palette (Ctrl+Shift+P) and search for "Local NPM Repo"
Select "Install Package" and enter the package name
The extension will handle the rest automatically
Local Repository Location
The local repository is stored in your VS Code extension's global storage directory, ensuring it persists across workspace sessions and is shared among all your projects.
Requirements
Node.js and npm installed on your system
VS Code 1.104.0 or higher
Known Issues
Large packages may take some time to cache initially
Network connectivity required for initial downloads and update checks
Release Notes
0.0.1
Initial release with core functionality:
Local package caching
Smart installation logic
Version checking and updates
Command palette integration
Development
To run the extension in development mode:
Open this folder in VS Code
Press F5 to open a new Extension Development Host window
Test the extension commands in the new window
Building
npm run compile
Testing
npm test
Following extension guidelines
Ensure that you've read through the extensions guidelines and follow the best practices for creating your extension.