C Language Editors/IDEs for the Grace Cluster

The following are editors/IDEs you can use to edit files in the Grace system/cluster. Students like to use VS Code, but you should know the basics of an editor you can find in any Linux environment (e.g., nano, vim). Using an editor beyond what the Grace cluster provides (e.g., nano, vim, emacs) is optional and we cannot provide additional information or support.

At UMD you need to use DUO for authentication purposes. If you first connect to UMD using VPN, you will avoid the authentication process while connecting to the Grace cluster. For a VPN connection you can use GlobalProtect (use access.umd.edu).

1. nano
2. emacs (non-graphical option emacs -nw)
3. vim - A short short guide available at vim short short guide. You may want to also check (for fun and to learn vim): http://www.vim-adventures.com/.
4. kate
5. gedit
6. You can open files with the MobaXTerm editor once connected to grace.
7. VS Code - Notice that in Grace, it is not that straightforward to use the VS Code Microsoft SSH extension, however there is one VS Code extension (“SSH FS” by Kelvin Schools) which will allow you to connect to the grace cluster, edit files and open an ssh terminal. Instructions on how to use this extension can be found at SSHVSCodeExtensionSetup.pdf, but Keep in mind that:
   • Running the UMD VPN before connecting to Grace could simplify the process. See above information regarding the UMD VPN.
   • You must use the appropriate "Root" (path) and and not the specified in the document.
   • In order to connect to Grace you will need to provide your password several times (this is normal as it is how VS Code sets different connections). For example, at some point you may need to enter your password four times. Do not enter your password in the configuration form (same form where you specify the "Root" value) as it will be stored as plain text. Also, wait a little bit after providing your password as it takes time to files to appear.
   • Once you have connected to Grace, you will notice that configuration files (those starting with a period) will be listed. You can hide them as follows:
     • Select the VS Code "Settings" option.
     • In the "Search settings" area type files:exclude
     • You will see a button labeled "Add Pattern"; select it, enter .* and select the "OK" button.
   Additional options to connect to Grace using VS Code:
   • ConnectingToGraceUsingVSCode.pdf (This information is based on original material developed by a former CS student (Peter Currie)).
   • Also information is available at VS Code SFTP Extension for CMSC216 (Video) by Dr. Christopher Kauffman and VS Code SFTP Extension for CMSC216 (Written Guide) by Dr. Christopher Kauffman.

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