> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://academy.shade.inc/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://academy.shade.inc/getting-started/quickstart.md).

# Get the App

## Web Platform

Shade offers a full web platform that allows you to easily and quickly search and share your files from anywhere. You have the full capability of Shade minus the real-time access file system and fast transfer that our desktop client provides. The web version is easy to access - simply head to [app.shade.inc](https://app.shade.inc/) or click on the **Get Started** tab on [shade.inc](https://shade.inc/).

## Local App

You unlock the full power of Shade with the Shade desktop application. The Shade desktop app is optimized for fast uploading and more importantly, real-time access to all your files via the Shade File System.

You can download the Shade App for MacOS Intel, MacOS Silicon, Windows, and Linux (a .deb package for Debian-based distributions and an .rpm package for Fedora-based distributions) on <https://shade.inc/download>. We recommend using the desktop app over the web for bulk uploading.

## FAQs

<details>

<summary>How do I update the desktop app?</summary>

Shade has a built in auto updater that runs for Mac, Linux and Windows. While the app is open, it regularly checks for and downloads the latest builds that we release. When an update is ready, Shade asks whether you want to install it now or choose **Install on Next Launch**.

You can turn off automatic updates with the **Update Shade app automatically** toggle in **Settings > Preferences**.

</details>

<details>

<summary>What is the difference between the desktop app and the web app?</summary>

The web is great for a few things - quickly viewing and sharing files, managing permissions, and uploading files on the go if you do not have Shade downloaded.

Shade desktop offers the full web experience and more with the Shade File System. The desktop is where ShadeFS shines, with the ability to access files before the whole file is downloaded. Mount a shade drive to your computer and start using files in your applications.

We highly recommended that you use the desktop application if you plan on transferring more than 5 GBs of data.

</details>

<details>

<summary>How often do you guys release? Do you guys give updates?</summary>

Yes, we are active in our [Discord](https://discord.com/invite/h8wqFMJ4vK) and post regular change log updates. We typically try to release every two weeks depending on the scope of the release.

</details>


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