Debugging Client-Side JavaScript with WebStorm's Built-In Debugger

When it comes to debugging client-side JavaScript, having the right tools can make all the difference. WebStorm, a popular Integrated Development Environment (IDE), offers a built-in debugger that allows you to seamlessly debug your code without leaving the comfort of your browser. In this article, we'll explore how to set up and use WebStorm's built-in JavaScript debugger for client-side JavaScript.

Configuring the Built-In Debugger

To get started, make sure that the JavaScript Debugger plugin is enabled in your WebStorm settings. You can do this by pressing Ctrl+Alt+S to open the IDE settings, then selecting Plugins from the menu. Search for 'JavaScript Debugger' and ensure it's enabled.

Another essential step is to specify the built-in web server port where the debugger will run. By default, this port is set to 63342, but you can change it to any value starting from 1024. To do so, open the Build, Execution, Deployment > Debugger settings in your WebStorm settings and adjust the port number accordingly.

Suppressing External Connections

To prevent external connections or unsigned requests, make sure to clear the 'Can accept external connections' or 'Allow unsigned requests' checkbox respectively. This will ensure that only authorized connections can be made to your built-in web server.

Setting Up Breakpoints

When debugging client-side JavaScript, setting up breakpoints is crucial. By default, WebStorm sets the breakpoint removal method to Click with left mouse button. You can change this behavior by opening the Build, Execution, Deployment > Debugger settings and adjusting the breakpoint removal method as needed.

Starting the Debugger

Once you've set up your debugger, starting a new debugging session is easy. Simply open your JavaScript file in WebStorm, place breakpoints where necessary, and then click the 'Debug' button or press Shift+F9 to start the debugger.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues while using WebStorm's built-in debugger, refer to the Managing Plugins section of the WebStorm documentation for more information on troubleshooting common problems. Additionally, make sure that the JavaScript Debugger plugin is enabled and that you've specified the correct port number for your built-in web server.

In conclusion, WebStorm's built-in JavaScript debugger offers a convenient way to debug client-side JavaScript code without leaving the comfort of your browser. By following these simple steps, you can set up and use the built-in debugger effectively, ensuring that your debugging experience is seamless and efficient.

Webstorm debug client side javascript