The PrivateNote editor extension encrypts content locally inside the extension host. Use the selection action for a quick handoff or the sidebar composer for a new note. It also works alongside the Codex IDE extension in a compatible VS Code environment.
Install the extension
Open Extensions and search for PrivateNote, or visit the VS Code Marketplace. You can also install by identifier:
code --install-extension PrivateNote.privatenote-vscodeIn Cursor, use its Extensions panel. Availability can vary by marketplace; use the project’s release artifact if your editor cannot find the extension.
Share a selection
- Select a harmless test message in an open file.
- Right-click and choose Share as PrivateNote, or use the lock action in the editor title bar.
- Choose the access options when prompted, including expiry and an optional reveal password.
- Create the note and copy its full link. Verify it in a separate browser profile.
Compose from the sidebar
Open the PrivateNote icon in the activity bar, or run PrivateNote: Compose New Note... from the command palette. Enter content, configure the available options, and create the encrypted link.
Sign in
Run PrivateNote: Sign In and approve the browser request. Use PrivateNote: Show Account to check the session, and PrivateNote: Sign Out to revoke it. The extension keeps its token in editor Secret Storage.
Settings
- privatenote.apiBaseUrl
- API origin. Default: https://privatenote.ai. Change only for your own deployment.
- privatenote.webOrigin
- Origin for shareable links. Keep it aligned with the recipient web application.
- privatenote.defaultExpiresIn
- Default: 24h. Supports the full 5-minute to 30-day preset list; account limits apply.
- privatenote.defaultBurnAfterReading
- Default: true. Keep enabled for read-once handoffs.
Test the editor workflow
Check both the selection command and composer, then verify password reveal, default settings, clipboard copy, and browser sign-in. The acceptance checklist has expected outcomes.