# Installation

## Normal users

Download the latest preview build from GitHub Releases and run the desktop app.

The basic workflow does not require Python, Codex, Zotero, Obsidian, or internet access.

## Optional Python

Install Python 3.11+ only if you want richer automatic checks or compatibility scripts. If Python is missing, the app should show a plain-language notice:

> Basic project workflow is still available; advanced automatic checks are unavailable.

## Developers

Build the frontend:

```powershell
cd apps/desktop
npm install
npm run build
```

Build a Windows preview package:

```powershell
npm run desktop:build:windows-preview
```

## Public build rule

Public packages must not include private research notes, PDFs, browser sessions, Zotero databases, Obsidian vaults, tokens, SSH keys, account traces, or machine-specific paths.