First step:
- Install the Arduino software
Install the Arduino software from the official website (http://www.arduino.cc).
- Go to the preferences and add:
http://arduino.esp8266.com/stable/package_esp8266com_index.json
in the Additional Board Managers.
-
Go the the Board Manager and choose ESP8266, install it
-
Choose the Generic ESP8266 in the boards list
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It worked out-of-the-box on my main machine (ArchLinux) and on another one (Debian Sid).
Of course, you have to trade the ease-of-use for the weight of the Arduino Libs… Pick your side.