VS Code extension SUPPORT.md before review friction
Publish a SUPPORT.md and keep the issue, repository, and license links healthy so the buyer can inspect your operating discipline before the first install prompt asks for trust.
Why this can grow a startup
VS Code now asks users to confirm trust when they install from a third-party publisher, which means a vague support path costs more than it used to. The runtime security guide tells users to inspect ratings, Q and A, issues, repository, and license before deciding an extension is reliable. The publishing docs tell authors to add SUPPORT.md. Put those together and the lesson is plain: support metadata is not housekeeping. It is part of the trust check that happens before the extension gets a chance to prove itself in the editor.
Company example
VS Code's publishing guide recommends adding SUPPORT.md to the extension root, and the runtime security guide says users should inspect Q and A, issues, repository, license, and publisher responsiveness before installing.
Source and metric
Source: Visual Studio Code Docs: Extension Runtime Security
As of VS Code 1.97, first-time installs from third-party publishers prompt the user to confirm publisher trust.
When to use it
Use this when Trust, Support, Marketplaces is relevant to developer tools, support surface, publisher trust and you can run a bounded test with a free budget.
When not to use it
Do not use it as a substitute for customer evidence, a clear owner, or a measurable stop condition. Local platform rules and market behavior still need checking.
Founder checklist
- Read Visual Studio Code Docs: Extension Runtime Security and identify what is directly supported.
- Choose one channel context: Trust, Support, Marketplaces.
- Define the test around As of VS Code 1.97, first-time installs from third-party publishers prompt the user to confirm publisher trust..
- Set an owner, evidence window, and stop condition before launch.
Explore the context
Apply this with an operator
Choose product surfaces that compound distribution without hiding weak activation or retention.