Throughout this workshop we'll use the Arduino IDE to write and upload our code to the ESP8266 microcontroller (big word? We'll get there in a sec).
To download the Arduino IDE go to arduino.cc
Then you have to add the ESP8266 to your board list so you can program it. To do that, go to File -> Preferences
And then add the following link to Additional Boards Manager URLs:
http://arduino.esp8266.com/stable/package_esp8266com_index.json
Now go to Tools -> Board -> Boards Manager and search for ESP8266. If you don't find it try restarting the Arduino IDE.
If you are using Linux, make sure to add your user to the 'dialout' and 'tty' groups or you won't be able to upload code.
sudo usermod -a -G tty yourUserName
sudo usermod -a -G dialout yourUserNameLog out and back in and you should be set.
As the official driver of the CH340G chip crashes the macOS kernel, a dedicated GitHub user created his own driver for the chip that is compatible with macOS Sierra.
Folow his instructions to install the driver.
Then restart your machine and you're set!
Install the driver provided in this page and restart.
Maybe, windows do not recognize the ESP driver automaticaly. In this case, you should instal it manualy.
If you plug the ESP board and you Arduino IDE do not show the comunication port, like on image below.
First open you device manager. Then rigth click on USB and left click on update driver.
Then, select "Automaticaly search for drivers online". Wait the instalation finish.
Now, the COM port must apear on the "tools tab".