esp32:esp32 in Arduino IDE 2.3.6 stuck on installing after downloading all packages

[emmyetah]

I've seen the network issue already on here, added the timeout to the .yaml but unfortunately this did not work in my case. I've tried deleting and re-downloading all of the staging files, & packages. Tried downloading different versions (other than 3.3.5). I've given it time but the install process goes on hours without intervening.

I'm a beginner using Arduino, so ANY tips or possible solutions would help!

[ashishrai12]

The "stuck on installing" hang is typically a permission lock or a corrupted toolchain extraction. Since the .yaml fix didn't work, follow these three direct steps:

1. Force Clear the Cache Close the IDE completely. Navigate to your Arduino15 folder:

Windows: %LOCALAPPDATA%\Arduino15

macOS: ~/Library/Arduino15

Delete these specific folders/files:

The entire staging folder.

The packages/esp32 folder.

package_esp32_index.json.

2. Close Serial Monitor There is a known bug in IDE 2.3.x where an open Serial Monitor tab blocks the background installer from finishing. Ensure the Serial Monitor is closed (X out the tab at the bottom) before you click install again.

3. Use Version 3.0.7 (LTS) In the Boards Manager, do not install the latest 3.3.x. Instead, select 3.0.7 from the version dropdown. It is the most stable release and avoids the recent "stream error" bugs found in the 3.3.x installers.

Final Tip: If it still hangs, right-click the Arduino IDE icon and select "Run as Administrator" to bypass Windows file permission locks.

[me-no-dev]

why do you say that 3.0.7 is LTS? We do not have LTS versions in Arduino. Only the latest version matters.