> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://copy-cat.in/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# How to download and install Copycat on your computer

> System requirements, download steps, and first-launch setup for Copycat 1.2.1 on macOS and Windows — including how to start a trial from within the app.

Copycat runs on macOS and Windows as a native desktop app. There is no browser version — the installer puts a full local app on your machine that handles indexing, encrypting, and copying files directly from your hard drive.

## System requirements

* **macOS**: macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, Apple Silicon or Intel
* **Windows**: Windows 10 or later, 64-bit

An internet connection is required for license activation, Google Drive connectivity, and vault creation. File indexing and copy operations run entirely offline once a vault is open.

## Download Copycat

Go to [copy-cat.in](https://copy-cat.in) to download the installer for your platform. The download page detects your OS and offers the right file automatically. Copycat version 1.2.1 is the current release.

## Install

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="macOS">
    <Steps>
      <Step title="Open the downloaded file">
        Double-click the `.dmg` file you downloaded. A disk image mounts and a Finder window opens showing the Copycat app icon and your **Applications** folder.
      </Step>

      <Step title="Drag Copycat to Applications">
        Drag the **Copycat** icon onto the **Applications** folder shortcut in that window.
      </Step>

      <Step title="Launch Copycat">
        Open **Applications** in Finder and double-click **Copycat**.

        If macOS shows a security prompt saying the app is from an unidentified developer, go to **System Settings → Privacy & Security** and click **Open Anyway** next to the Copycat entry.
      </Step>
    </Steps>

    <Note>
      Copycat is code-signed and notarized. The security prompt only appears on first launch on some systems.
    </Note>
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Windows">
    <Steps>
      <Step title="Run the installer">
        Double-click the `.exe` installer you downloaded. If Windows Defender SmartScreen shows a warning, click **More info** and then **Run anyway**.
      </Step>

      <Step title="Follow the setup wizard">
        Accept the license agreement and choose an install location. The default location (`C:\Program Files\Copycat`) works for most setups.
      </Step>

      <Step title="Launch Copycat">
        Click **Finish** to launch Copycat, or find it in your Start menu under **Copycat**.
      </Step>
    </Steps>
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

## First launch

The first time Copycat opens, the license activation screen appears.

* **If you have a license key**: enter it in the **License key** field and click **Activate**. Copycat verifies the key online and opens the main app window.
* **If you want to try Copycat first**: click **Start Trial**. A free trial starts immediately — no payment details required. The app shows your remaining trial days in the license panel.

<Warning>
  Trials are single-use per account. Once a trial has been used on a license key, it cannot be started again on the same key.
</Warning>

After activation, Copycat opens to the main window. Your next step is connecting Google Drive so you can create vaults. See [Set up Google Drive](/docs/configuration/google-drive) or jump straight to the [quickstart guide](/docs/quickstart).