SonarLint is a free, open-source IDE plugin that helps developers detect and fix code quality issues as they write code. Think of it like a spell checker for your programming language—it scans your code in real-time and flags potential bugs, code smells, security vulnerabilities, and non-compliant patterns.
It supports multiple languages such as Java, Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, C#, C++, and more depending on the IDE.
Where Can You Use SonarLint?
SonarLint is available for popular IDEs like:
- IntelliJ IDEA / Android Studio
- Visual Studio
- VS Code
- Eclipse
Key Benefits of Using SonarLint
| Benefit | Description |
| Real-Time Feedback | Issues are detected instantly while typing—no need to run a manual scan. |
| Early Bug Detection | Catches potential bugs before the code is committed or deployed. |
| No External Tools Required | Runs locally within your IDE without needing to connect to SonarQube or SonarCloud (though it can if desired). |
| Actionable Suggestions | Offers clear descriptions of issues and advice for fixing them. |
| Security Awareness | Flags security vulnerabilities and weak coding practices. |
Connected Mode (Advanced Use)
SonarLint can also connect with SonarQube or SonarCloud for team-based analysis. This brings in shared rules, historical context, and project-specific standards, enhancing its usefulness in collaborative environments.
SonarLint Plugin for IntelliJ
SonarLint helps you detect and fix quality issues as you write code. Like a spell checker, SonarLint squiggles flaws.
Installing SonarLint Plugin to IntelliJ Idea
- Click on Settings > Plugins
- Click on the Browse Repositories button
-  Then type in “SonarLint” and click on the install button
- Restart your IDE if asked for.
Analyzing source code with SonarLint
With SonarLint, you can analyze the code at the codebase level, package level, file level or even a block of code. Select a source folder, package or file or block, or code then right-click and click on “Analyse with SonarLint” (Ctrl + Alt + S)
This option will analyze the selected code and generates a report. Once the analysis is complete you would see some results in the SonarLint tab.
You can see the reports for the current file, or complete the report by clicking on these tabs in the SonarLint tab.
Select any item in the report to see the rule and location on the right side as shown below.
