> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://windows.help.formit.autodesk.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://windows.help.formit.autodesk.com/plugins/how-to-develop-plugins/advanced-development/hosting-a-plugin-on-a-local-server.md).

# Hosting a Plugin on a Local Server

Before you can preview a cloned plugin in FormIt, you need to host it on a local server.

### **View the Terminal in IDE**

You have the option of starting the server inside Visual Studio Code, instead of a separate terminal window. \*\*\*\* Before opening a terminal, make sure the right folder is opened in Visual Studio Code.

View > Terminal (or shortcut Ctrl + \`)

![](/files/3qz1STviQ50NYrQzgn1a)

### Set Up an HTTP Server

An HTTP server that works well is npm's [http-server](https://www.npmjs.com/package/http-server).

First, you will need to download and install [NodeJS](https://nodejs.org/en/), if it's not already installed.

If you encounter errors in the following steps, try restarting your computer to complete the NodeJS installation.

In the Command Prompt, enter the following to install npm's *http-server* globally (a one-time setup).

* `npm install http-server -g`

![](/files/TFj2Fw0seWDjnqV88B6Q)

### Start the Local Server

Once the setup is complete, run the following command in the terminal to start your npm http-server:

* `http-server`

![](/files/sVivwFYGSKQcFr5jvohv)

Tip 1: In case of any issues with running the http-server (installed globally or locally), it may be helpful to run it directly via npx:

* `npx http-server`

Tip 2: For Windows 10/11 users, if you encounter an error when running a script on your new machine, this may be due to the settings being disabled. To fix this:

* Launch PowerShell script as an administrator
* Enter: `Set-ExecutionPolicy RemoteSigned`

### Develop for FormIt Web

To develop for FormIt Web, simply run the following command instead:

* `http-server --cors`

![](/files/3Czd74lgXMvbYIsfCBe4)

### Verify Your Server

You can verify your server by navigating to the following address in your web browser:

* <http://localhost:8080>

You should see your project folder files in the browser window.

\*\*If you use a different web server than npm, the default address/port might be different.

![](/files/OaBeG4oRCMmZNLnYBUzf)