How to install the SmaugBrain desktop app: Windows download, extraction, and login guide
If you downloaded the SmaugBrain desktop app but cannot open it, the most common reasons are that the files were not fully extracted or that an old process is still using them during an update. Follow the steps below in order to download, launch, and log in to the Windows version and select an Agent.
Before downloading, confirm that a version is actually available on the page
After opening the desktop app download page, first check the platform cards. The page displays the currently released platforms, along with their version numbers, architectures, file sizes, and release dates. Platforms without an available version will show a notice indicating that no download is currently available or that the version is under development. Always refer to the information displayed on the download page at that time.
How to correctly open the portable Windows package
- Confirm the version and architecture on the Windows platform card.
- Click Download and save the compressed archive locally.
- Right-click the zip file and select “Extract All.”
- Open the extracted folder and double-click
SmaugBrain.exe.
Do not run the application directly from the compressed archive preview window, as the application may be unable to read its dependency files correctly. We recommend placing the entire extracted folder in a permanent location and then creating a shortcut.
Log in and select an Agent
- Enter the username, email address, and password associated with your account on the official website.
- Click “Log in and retrieve Agents,” or press Enter.
- Select an accessible Agent from the list under your account.
- After entering the workspace, verify the current account and Agent information.
The list synchronizes the status of the Agents under your account. If an instance has expired or has an abnormal status, you may be unable to access it. First verify the status of your account and instance on the official website.
How to prevent files from being in use during an update
First close the desktop window, then check whether the SmaugBrain icon is still present in the system tray. If it is, right-click it and exit the application. Next, extract the new compressed archive to a new folder, or replace the old files after the application has completely exited. Keep the old directory for a while so you can roll back if necessary.
Quick troubleshooting for common issues
| Issue | What to check first |
|---|---|
| Nothing happens after double-clicking | Whether the files were fully extracted; whether the application is being run from the extracted directory |
| Unable to replace files | Whether the window and system tray process have been closed |
| No Agents appear after login | Whether the account is correct; whether an instance has been created or assigned |
| An expiration notice appears | The plan or expiration status shown on the official website |
| The latest version is required | Return to the download page and check the currently released version |
Frequently asked questions
Can I run it directly from the zip file?
This is not recommended. Fully extract the files first, then launch the application from the extracted folder.
How do I switch Agents?
Exit the current instance and return to the list, then select another accessible Agent.
How do I switch accounts?
Log out, then sign in again with another account from the official website.
What to do next
After logging in, first select an Agent with a normal status and enter the workspace. If it still fails, record the version shown on the download page, the system message, and the steps that led to the issue, then provide this information to the administrator for troubleshooting.