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What is a plugin?

Short answer

A plugin is a small add-on that gives an app new features without changing the app itself.

  • Category Agents & tools
  • Also called plug-in, add-on
  • Updated 20 Oct 2026
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Plugin, explained simply

A plugin, also called an add-on, is a small piece of software that plugs into a bigger app. It adds a new feature.

It matters because you can customize your tools. You install only what you need and remove it later.

For example, a browser extension that blocks ads is a plugin. An AI coding tool can also take plugins that add new commands.

Only install plugins from sources you trust. A plugin often gets access to what the app can see.

On ITG Now, our free tool guides say when a tool has plugins and how to add one step by step.

Agent skillsClaude CodeCursorVS CodeMCP

Where you'll see it on ITG Now

Questions people ask about Plugin

Are plugins free?

Many are free. Some cost money, so check the page before you install.

Plugin vs extension: what is the difference?

They are nearly the same idea. Different apps just use different names for add-ons.

Is it safe to install a plugin?

Stick to trusted sources and read what permissions it asks for. Remove ones you no longer use.

Sources

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