Install App on Your Computer

Essential Protocols can be installed on your Windows, Mac, or Linux computer as a Progressive Web App (PWA). This gives you a native app-like experience with a dedicated window, desktop shortcut, and the ability to launch it like any other application on your computer.

Installation Steps (Chrome/Edge)

The installation process is similar across all supported browsers. These instructions use Chrome, but Edge follows nearly identical steps.

1. 1
   Navigate to essentialprotocols.com or scan this QR code from your computer

   
2. 2
   Look for the install icon in the address bar (a computer monitor with a down arrow) and click it

   
3. 3
   Alternatively, click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner
4. 4
   Select "cast, save, and share" → "Install Essential Protocols"

   
5. 5
   A confirmation dialog will appear. Click "Install" to proceed

   
6. 6
   Essential Protocols will open in its own window and a shortcut will be added to your applications

   
7. 7
   You can now launch Essential Protocols from your Start Menu (Windows), Applications folder (Mac), or Desktop shortcut
8. 8
   Stop using the desktop app by clicking the three dots in the header and selecting "Open in Chrome"

   
9. 9
   Uninstall the app by clicking the three dots in the header and selecting "Uninstall Essential Pro"

   

Platform-Specific Instructions

Windows

After installation on Windows:

• • Find Essential Protocols in your Start Menu under "E"
• • Pin to Start Menu: Right-click → "Pin to Start"
• • Pin to Taskbar: Right-click → "Pin to taskbar"
• • Create desktop shortcut: Right-click → "Create shortcut" → choose Desktop
• • The app will open in its own window without browser tabs or address bar

Mac

After installation on Mac:

• • Find Essential Protocols in Applications folder or Launchpad
• • Add to Dock: Drag from Applications to your Dock
• • The app will appear in your Applications folder like any other Mac app
• • Use Spotlight (⌘ + Space) to search and launch "Essential Protocols"
• • The app opens as a separate application, not in Chrome

Linux

After installation on Linux:

• • Find Essential Protocols in your application menu
• • Location varies by distribution and desktop environment
• • The .desktop file is typically created in ~/.local/share/applications/
• • Pin to favorites panel if your desktop environment supports it
• • Launch via application launcher or command line

Benefits of Installing the PWA

• • Dedicated Window: Runs in its own window without browser clutter
• • Quick Launch: Access from Start Menu, Applications, or Desktop
• • Offline Access: View saved protocols without internet
• • Automatic Updates: Always have the latest version
• • Better Focus: No browser tabs or extensions to distract you
• • System Integration: Appears in Alt+Tab (Windows/Linux) or ⌘+Tab (Mac)
• • Keyboard Shortcuts: Full support for app-specific shortcuts
• • Better Performance: Faster loading and smoother experience

Troubleshooting

Can't Find Install Option?

If you don't see the install icon or menu option:

• • Update your browser to the latest version
• • Make sure you're using a Chromium-based browser (Chrome, Edge, Brave, Opera)
• • Try refreshing the page (F5 or ⌘+R)
• • Clear your browser cache and cookies, then reload
• • The install option only appears on the actual site, not when reading from cache
• • Some browsers hide the install option if you've previously dismissed it - look in the menu instead

Installation Failed?

If the installation doesn't complete:

• • Check that you have enough disk space
• • Ensure you have a stable internet connection
• • Temporarily disable browser extensions that might interfere
• • Try restarting your browser
• • On Windows, make sure you have permission to install applications

App Won't Launch After Installing?

If the installed app doesn't open:

• • Try launching directly from the browser's app menu (chrome://apps in Chrome)
• • Uninstall and reinstall the app
• • Check if your antivirus software is blocking it
• • On Windows, check Windows Defender settings
• • Try opening the website in your browser first, then install again

Multiple Windows

You can open multiple instances of Essential Protocols in separate windows:

• • Windows/Linux: Right-click the app icon → New window
• • Mac: File → New Window (when app is focused)
• • Useful for comparing protocols or working on multiple tasks

App Settings

You can manage the installed app's settings and permissions:

• • Chrome: chrome://apps → Right-click Essential Protocols → App info
• • Edge: edge://apps → Right-click Essential Protocols → App info
• • Control permissions like notifications, location, camera/microphone access
• • Manage storage and cached data
• • View app details and version information

Difference from Web Version

The installed PWA provides the same functionality as the web version, but with these advantages:

• • Dedicated app window without browser UI
• • Appears as a separate app in your taskbar/dock
• • Can be launched independently without opening the browser first
• • Better focus and fewer distractions
• • More native-feeling experience
• • Better keyboard shortcut support