EXE Installation

The EXE installer is an alternative method for installing Pieces on Windows. Use this if the AppInstaller method doesn't work in your environment, such as enterprise systems with restricted policies.

*Alternative Method*

Windows 10 (1809) or higher required.

Install the EXE

Open your **Downloads** folder (or wherever you saved the file) and look for the `.exe` file you just downloaded. Double-click the `.exe` file to launch the Windows installation wizard. If prompted by Windows' User Account Control, click `Yes` to allow the installer to make changes. Pick a **local** folder (avoid OneDrive or other synced locations). The default path is recommended. Click `Install`. Optionally check `Create a desktop shortcut` or `Automatically start Pieces` based on your preferences. Click `Install` and wait for the installation to complete. Click `Finish` when done. **Don't install** Pieces or PiecesOS to **OneDrive** or other **cloud-synced** folders (Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.)—sync can interfere with installs and updates.

Enterprise Environments

The EXE installer is recommended for enterprise environments or systems with advanced security settings that may block AppInstaller packages.

Next Steps

After installation, explore Conversational Search to start chatting with your memories, or configure Long-Term Memory to customize how Pieces captures your workflow context.

If you encounter issues, see Windows troubleshooting for common solutions.