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Setup guide NS/G10

How to set up AppFlowy

Start with a local AppFlowy workspace and avoid self-hosting the collaboration backend before it is needed.

AppFlowy is the project behind this setup. The desktop app is the simplest useful version of AppFlowy. AppFlowy Cloud is a separate, more involved deployment for sync and collaboration.

Recommended method
Desktop application
Difficulty
Beginner
Typical time
15–30 minutes

What you need

  • A supported desktop operating system
  • A location for workspace backups
  • A clear first use such as notes, projects or a wiki

Set it up

  1. Install the official package

    Download the current desktop release for Windows, macOS or Linux and launch the application.

  2. Create one focused workspace

    Begin with a small notes or project system rather than importing an entire Notion account immediately.

  3. Build one reusable structure

    Create a page, database and simple view that match a workflow you already use.

  4. Export and inspect a backup

    Confirm how the current release exports data before committing important work.

  5. Consider AppFlowy Cloud separately

    Follow the official deployment documentation only when multi-device synchronization or team collaboration justifies the extra services.

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Reserved for launch

Verify it works

Do not call the setup finished until these small tests pass:

  • The workspace reopens after a restart
  • Data can be exported
  • The chosen workflow is faster than the tool it replaces
  • Sync is not assumed to be a backup

Protect the service

  • Know whether the workspace is local or connected to a cloud backend
  • Keep exports outside the application data folder
  • Review self-hosted Cloud secrets before internet access
  • Test collaboration with noncritical data first

Official resources

Videos are supplemental. Use the official documentation for current commands, versions and security guidance.

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