# Getting started

> Install Side Whisper, choose where the rail lives and add your first web apps. Free needs no account.

Source: https://sidewhisper.app/docs/getting-started/

## Before you begin

Side Whisper runs on Windows 10 (version 1809 or later) and Windows 11, on 64-bit PCs. It is a rail at the edge of your screen. Each web app you save opens in its own browser window beside it.

Free needs no account. Sign in to start the 14-day Pro trial or to use Pro; one account works on up to 3 PCs. See [system requirements](https://sidewhisper.app/docs/system-requirements/) if you are unsure about your PC.

## Install

Get Side Whisper from the Microsoft Store (the [Download page](https://sidewhisper.app/download/) has the link) and open it. Setup starts straight away; there is no sign-in.

## First-run setup

Setup has four short steps and an optional fifth. You can change every choice later in Settings.

- **Position.** Pick the left or right edge, and the monitor.
- **Apps.** Choose the apps to save, or start from a template.
- **Shortcut.** Set the shortcut that shows or hides the rail. The default is `Ctrl+Alt+0`.
- **Look.** Choose a theme.
- **Account, if you want.** Start the 14-day Pro trial or sign in. Skip it and Free keeps working, offline too. One account works on up to 3 PCs; at the limit, you choose one to sign out.

## Add your apps

Use Add at the bottom of the rail to save a web app or any link with a URL. Group apps with dividers, drag them into order, pin the ones you use most to the top, and mute an app when it should stay quiet.

> **Tip.** Not sure where to start? Open Templates with `Ctrl+Alt+Shift+O` and add AI Workbench, Gaming Overlay, Streamer Desk, Support Shift or Study Desk.

## Choose a window mode

The Window mode button at the top of the rail decides how Side Whisper shares the screen.

| Mode | What it does |
| --- | --- |
| Productivity | Normal Windows stacking. |
| Productivity On Top | Side Whisper windows stay above other apps. |
| Gaming: View | Topmost and click-through. The game keeps the mouse. Only the Window mode button stays clickable. |
| Gaming: Interact | Click Side Whisper controls without taking focus from the game. |
| Gaming: Focus | Keyboard and mouse go to Side Whisper, for typing, sign-in and search. |

> **Note.** Start with Productivity. Switch to Productivity On Top or a Gaming mode when your work needs it.

## Try Quick Search

The Quick Search button at the top of the rail opens a compact launcher. Type to launch a saved app, search the web or run an action such as Settings, Templates or Voice settings. A web result opens in a temporary window, and Keep in sidebar saves it.