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How to Use Cursor Live Share: Collaborative Coding Guide

Cursor Live Share enables real-time collaborative coding, allowing multiple developers to work on the same codebase simultaneously. This guide covers everything you need to know about setting up and using Live Share effectively.

Getting Started with Live Share​

Prerequisites​

  1. Latest version of Cursor installed
  2. Stable internet connection
  3. Cursor account (for hosting sessions)

Initial Setup​

  1. Open Cursor
  2. Sign in to your Cursor account
  3. Enable Live Share feature in settings
  4. Restart Cursor if prompted

Starting a Live Share Session​

As a Host​

  1. Click the "Live Share" button in the status bar
  2. Choose "Start new session"
  3. Copy the generated session link
  4. Share the link with collaborators

As a Guest​

  1. Receive the session link from host
  2. Click the link or paste in browser
  3. Cursor will launch automatically
  4. Accept the collaboration invitation

Live Share Features​

Real-time Collaboration​

  1. Simultaneous Editing

    • Multiple users can edit simultaneously
    • Changes sync in real-time
    • Cursor positions visible for all users

  2. File Navigation

    • Shared workspace explorer
    • Synchronized file opening
    • Real-time file changes

  3. Terminal Sharing

    • Shared terminal sessions
    • Command execution visibility
    • Output synchronization

Best Practices​

For Hosts​

  1. Session Management

    • Set clear permissions
    • Monitor participant activity
    • End sessions when complete

  2. Performance Optimization

    • Limit shared folders
    • Close unnecessary files
    • Monitor bandwidth usage

For Participants​

  1. Collaboration Etiquette

    • Communicate changes
    • Respect host guidelines
    • Use chat for coordination

  2. Resource Usage

    • Minimize unnecessary file access
    • Close unused terminals
    • Optimize editor performance

Troubleshooting​

Common Issues​

  1. Connection Problems

    • Check internet connection
    • Verify firewall settings
    • Restart Cursor if needed

  2. Sync Issues

    • Re-join session
    • Clear cache if necessary
    • Check file permissions

  3. Performance Issues

    • Reduce shared workspace size
    • Close unused features
    • Check system resources

Advanced Features​

Custom Settings​

  1. Access Control

    • Read-only mode
    • Selective file sharing
    • Terminal permissions

  2. Collaboration Tools

    • Built-in chat
    • Audio calls (if supported)
    • Follow mode

Security Considerations​

Best Practices​

  1. Session Security

    • Use secure links
    • Set appropriate permissions
    • Monitor participant access

  2. Data Protection

    • Share only necessary files
    • Use .gitignore for sensitive data
    • End sessions properly

Tips for Effective Collaboration​

  1. Communication

    • Use built-in chat
    • Coordinate changes
    • Document decisions

  2. Workflow

    • Define roles clearly
    • Use follow mode when needed
    • Take turns for complex changes

Conclusion​

Cursor Live Share is a powerful tool for collaborative development. With proper setup and following best practices, it can significantly enhance team productivity and code quality.

Last updated: February 2025 - This guide covers Cursor version 0.43 and later.