GitHub Desktop Installation Guide 3

Install GitHub Desktop on Windows or macOS and get a local Git GUI ready to use.

1. Download the installer for Windows or macOS
2. Run the installer
3. Sign in with a GitHub account
4. Configure Git name and email
5. Clone or create a repository
6. Troubleshoot common problems

Download the installer

Open a browser and go to the official GitHub Desktop download area. Choose the platform that matches the computer. The downloaded package will land in the downloads folder like a predictable tax notice.

Run the installer

Double click the installer package and follow the prompts. Grant permissions when the operating system asks for approval. The installer will place the app in the standard applications folder to avoid surprises.

Sign in with a GitHub account

Launch GitHub Desktop and sign in using a GitHub account. Connecting the app to an account unlocks repository sync and pull request features. No account still works for local work but syncing requires credentials.

Configure Git name and email

Set the author name and email used for commits. Use the following commands in a terminal if a manual setup is preferred

git config --global user.name "Your Name"

git config --global user.email "you@example.com"

Clone or create a repository

Use the app menu to clone a remote repository or create a new local repository. The GUI will show branches and changes without requiring memorization of arcane commands.

Troubleshoot common problems

Authentication issues often trace to expired tokens or cached credentials. Network problems may block cloning and fetching. Updating the app or re authenticating usually clears most roadblocks.