Termux turns your Android phone into a portable Linux environment. With the right setup, you can work on the same codebase from your phone, laptop, or even a server. This guide shows you how to create a cross-platform development environment that’s light, fast, and secure.

If you’re new to Termux, start with this: How to install Termux on Android. Then, follow the steps below to make it your mobile dev powerhouse.

Why this matters

• Same tools and workflow on phone, desktop, and server.
• No need to carry a laptop for every quick edit or deployment.
• Works well with Git, Docker, APIs, and cloud platforms.
• Easy to secure with VPNs and SSH keys.

If you plan to use this for business or client work, consider reading Cyber Security Plan for Small Business to protect your workflow from the start.

1) Install core packages

Update Termux and install essential tools:

pkg update && pkg upgrade -y

pkg install -y git curl wget openssh tmux neovim python nodejs npm ripgrep fd

Why these?

• git — version control.
• openssh — connect securely between devices.
• tmux — keep processes running in background.
• neovim — fast and customizable editor.
• python, nodejs — popular dev stacks.

Do the basics from Things to Do After Installing Termux for a smooth start.

2) Sync your shell and dotfiles

Keep your config the same across devices using Git:

git clone https://github.com/<your-username>/dotfiles ~/.dotfiles

~/.dotfiles/install.sh

Pro tip: Store your aliases, prompt style, and editor settings here. That way, whether you’re on Termux or desktop, it feels the same.

3) Set up Python like your desktop

python -m pip install --upgrade pip

pip install --user pipx

~/.local/bin/pipx ensurepath

  
  
  Restart Termux


pipx install virtualenv

pipx install black

pipx install ruff

Start a project:

mkdir -p ~/code/myapp && cd ~/code/myapp

python -m venv .venv

. .venv/bin/activate

pip install requests fastapi uvicorn

4) Install Node.js tools

npm install -g pnpm

  
  
  Or use Yarn


npm install -g yarn

Create a quick frontend app:

mkdir -p ~/code/site && cd ~/code/site

pnpm create vite .

5) Configure SSH for cross-platform access

From Termux to server

ssh-keygen -t ed25519 -C "termux"

ssh-copy-id user@server

From laptop to Termux

sshd

ifconfig | grep 192.168

Then connect from your PC:

ssh -p 8022 u0_aNN@PHONE_IP

Always use a secure connection. See VPNs to Use When Using Termux for safe network setups.

6) Add language servers to Neovim

npm install -g typescript typescript-language-server

pipx install python-lsp-server

Set the same keymaps and themes on both devices for muscle memory.

7) Run VS Code in the browser

pkg install code-server

code-server

Edit the config in ~/.config/code-server/config.yaml to set your password. Access it via your phone browser or remote.

8) Test with a local web server

Install Nginx for local or LAN testing:

Full Nginx in Termux setup guide

For quick public demos:

pkg install cloudflared

cloudflared tunnel --url http://localhost:3000

9) Security practices you can’t skip

• Use a VPN when on public Wi-Fi. Here’s a detailed Surfshark VPN review.
• Use strong passwords and SSH keys — MaxPhisher in Termux can test password phishing simulations for awareness training.
• Keep your packages updated: pkg upgrade, pip list --outdated, npm -g outdated.
• Have a recovery plan — see Best Cyber Incident Response Companies for emergencies.

10) Troubleshooting common errors

Permission denied on sshd
<p>Run <code>termux-setup-storage</code>, then restart sshd. Check if port 8022 is free.</p>


npm install is too slow
<p>Switch to a closer mirror and try pnpm to save space.</p>


pip install fails
<p>Install build tools: <code>pkg install clang make cmake</code>.</p>

Next steps

Practice by building something small. See Quick Termux Projects You Can Do for ideas. If you later host it, apply Network Security Tips for Small Business to protect it.

Wrap up

You now have a portable, secure, and synced dev environment in Termux. Code anywhere, deploy anytime, and stay safe while doing it.