Issues with VScode: Cannot open, code.exe file missing, and failed download

Question

I have been having some issues with my VScode. I am unable to open it and instead, I see a message that the code.exe file has been moved or deleted.

I have tried to reinstall VSCode from the official website, but it failed to download and showed a 'couldn't download' message after reaching 100%. I also attempted to download the file on my phone and transfer it to my laptop, but the file disappeared a few seconds later. I expected to successfully reinstall VSCode and be able to use it without any issues.

Answer 1

I had the exact same problem today.

My VSCode code.exe did move to: C:\Users\<User>\AppData\Local\Programs\Microsoft VS Code_

There is a new folder with the name "_".

Answer 2

I was also facing the same issue, but I resolved it by following these steps:

1. Navigate to

   C:\Users\<User>\AppData\Local\Programs\Microsoft VS Code

2. Open the _ folder inside it

3. Locate the app executable file (Code.exe), right click it, and select show more option > create shortcut

4. Cut the shortcut and paste it to your desktop