claude-plugins-reference-2026

Complete reference for Claude Code plugins system (January 2026). Use when creating plugins, understanding plugin.json schema, marketplace configuration, bundling skills/commands/agents/hooks/MCP/LSP servers, plugin caching, validation, or distribution. Covers plugin components, directory structure, installation scopes, environment variables, CLI commands, debugging, and enterprise features.

Claude Code Plugins and Marketplaces

Load only the branch needed for the current task:

Manifest, component paths, default discovery, agents, skills, MCP, or LSP: Read manifest-and-components.md.
Installed paths, source modes, scopes, runtime variables, writable state, or cache lifecycle: Read caching-and-runtime.md.
Marketplace schema, source types, enterprise restrictions, authentication, or distribution: Read marketplaces-and-distribution.md.
Install, enable, list, validate, local-test, or debug commands: Read cli-and-debugging.md.
Hook events and handler types: Read hook-events.md, then load plugin-creator:hooks-guide for implementation guidance.
Monitors: Read monitors.md.
Enable-time user configuration or channels: Read user-config.md.

This skill documents Claude Code's host package. For portable Agent Plugins or another host's overlay, read agent-plugin-ecosystem.md before choosing a manifest or component layout.

Primary sources: Plugins reference, Create plugins, and Plugin marketplaces (accessed 2026-09-24).