Getting started

Install on Windows

Install the desktop app and understand its background service and prompts.

Reviewed August 12, 2026 · Stowspace team

Stowspace supports 64-bit Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Install the app

Download the latest Windows installer.
Open the downloaded .exe.
Follow the Windows installer prompts.
Open Stowspace from the Start menu when installation finishes.

Current builds are not code-signed. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen may warn before opening the installer. Check that you downloaded it from this site, choose More info, then Run anyway if you want to continue.

The background service

Installation registers a Windows background service named Stowspace Service and starts it with Windows. The service owns the local SQLite database and handles capture, indexing, sync, and the browser extension bridge. This is why browser saves can finish while the main Stowspace window is closed.

Allow the service prompt when Windows asks. Blocking or removing the service prevents the extension from reaching your local library.

Uninstall

Uninstall Stowspace from Settings → Apps → Installed apps. The uninstaller removes the service startup entry and the Chrome and Edge native-messaging registrations.

Before uninstalling, use the desktop app’s backup command if you want a portable copy of your library. See Import, export, and backups.

Follow the guide

Before you start

64-bit Windows 10 or Windows 11 and permission to install an application.
A signed Stowspace installer downloaded from the official Stowspace website.
Enough local storage for the app and the articles, snapshots, and files you choose to keep.

Steps

Download the current Windows installer from the Stowspace download page.
Open the installer, review the Windows publisher prompt, and continue only when the publisher and source are correct.
Allow installation of the desktop app and its local background service.
Launch Stowspace and confirm that the library, reader, and local search open without requiring an account.

Stowspace desktop library running on Windows — A successful installation opens the complete local Windows library without an account prompt.

Expected outcome

The desktop app and its background service are installed. The library opens locally and is ready to receive captures from the supported browser extension.

Common errors

Windows blocks the installer: Download it again from stowspace.net and verify that you are using a current signed release. Do not bypass a publisher warning for an unexpected file.
The app opens but browser capture fails: Restart Windows once after installation, then check that the Stowspace background service is running before reinstalling the extension.