VS Code extensions
How to sell a VS Code extension: license keys, payments, and a buy page
Unlike JetBrains, the VS Code Marketplace has no built-in way to sell paid extensions. If you want to monetize a VS Code extension, you need an external payment and license key system. Licensr gives you a Stripe-powered buy page, license key validation API, and a customer portal. Everything the marketplace is missing, on your own Stripe account with 0% revenue share.
// extension.ts — validate on activation
import * as vscode from "vscode";
export async function activate(
context: vscode.ExtensionContext
) {
const config = vscode.workspace.getConfiguration(
"myExtension"
);
const key = config.get<string>("licenseKey");
if (!key) return;
const res = await fetch(
"https://api.licensr.app/v1/license/validate",
{
method: "POST",
headers: {
"Content-Type": "application/json",
Authorization: `Bearer ${PLUGIN_API_KEY}`,
},
body: JSON.stringify({
license_key: key,
plugin_slug: "my-vscode-ext",
}),
}
);
const { valid } = await res.json();
if (!valid) {
vscode.window.showWarningMessage(
"License invalid. Premium features disabled."
);
}
}What the VS Code Marketplace is missing
Machine-locked seats: Each activation binds to a developer’s machine. License key sharing across a team hits the seat cap you define.
HMAC-peppered key storage: License keys are hashed before storage. A database breach does not expose working keys.
Why VS Code extension developers choose Licensr
VS Code Marketplace has no payment system. Licensr fills the gap.
JetBrains has a built-in paid plugin marketplace. The VS Code Marketplace does not. Licensr provides the complete payment and license key stack that’s missing: a buy page, license key generation, validation API, and customer portal.
Freemium model for paid VS Code extensions
Publish your extension for free on the VS Code Marketplace. When developers enter a license key in settings, premium features unlock. The validate response includes plan metadata for per-tier feature gating.
Machine-locked license keys for team licensing
Sell individual or team plans. Each activation binds to a machine so a single license key can’t be shared across an entire engineering team without paying for additional seats.
Stripe payments and automatic key fulfillment
Your VS Code extension gets a buy page at /buy/your-slug. Developers pay via Stripe, the license key is generated and emailed automatically. No Gumroad, no manual fulfillment.
Developer self-service portal
Customers sign in on a branded portal to view their license key, manage Stripe billing, and transfer activations between machines. Fewer support requests for you.
Start selling your VS Code extension today.
Free tier available. From signup to a live buy page in 15 minutes. The VS Code Marketplace can’t do this for you.