> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.monolithforensics.com/monolith/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.monolithforensics.com/monolith/monolith-features/getting-started/monolith-desktop-setup.md).

# Monolith Desktop Setup

Monolith Desktop allows users to access Monolith from a dedicated desktop application instead of a web browser.

The desktop application is available for Windows and macOS. After installation, Monolith Desktop must be connected to the correct Monolith environment before users can log in.

### Initial Installation

Download and install the version of Monolith Desktop that matches your operating system and device type.

The latest desktop installers are available on the [Accessing Monolith](https://docs.monolithforensics.com/monolith/monolith-resources/accessing-monolith) page.

Monolith Desktop can also be downloaded from within the Monolith web application:

1. Log in to Monolith.
2. Go to **Settings**.
3. Select **System**.
4. Scroll near the bottom of the page.
5. Download the appropriate Monolith Desktop installer for your device.

After installing Monolith Desktop and opening it for the first time, you will be prompted to select an API mode.

This setup screen determines whether Monolith Desktop connects to a Monolith cloud tenant or an on-premises Monolith server.

<figure><img src="/files/0dDRYVP94vmNBPkwqEBg" alt=""><figcaption><p>Monolith Desktop - API Mode Selection</p></figcaption></figure>

### Cloud Customers

Most Monolith customers should keep the API mode set to **Cloud**.

Cloud mode connects Monolith Desktop to a Monolith-hosted cloud tenant. When using cloud mode, select the region where your Monolith tenant is hosted.

Monolith currently supports the following cloud regions:

* **Australia**
* **Canada**
* **United Kingdon /** **Blue Lights Digital**
* **United Kingdom / Europe**
* **United States / North America**

Selecting the correct region ensures that Monolith Desktop connects to the correct Monolith server for your tenant.

If you are not sure which region to select, use the same region you use when accessing Monolith from the web application, or contact your Monolith administrator.

> **Note:** Trial tenants are typically hosted in our US / North America region by default. However, trials can be requested in any supported Monolith region. Selecting the preferred region during the trial can help avoid a tenant migration later and may be preferred for data residency or organizational reasons.

### On-Premises Customers

On-premises customers should change the API mode to **On-Premises**.

This mode allows Monolith Desktop to connect to a Monolith server running within your organization’s own environment or network.

After selecting **On-Premises**, enter your Monolith server’s API endpoint. This is typically the IP address of your Monolith server or a custom domain configured by your organization.

The API endpoint should use one of the following formats:

```
https://{monolith-server-ip-address}/api
```

```
https://{custom-monolith-domain}/api
```

Examples:

```
https://192.168.1.22/api
```

```
https://monolith.myorg.com/api
```

If Monolith Desktop can successfully reach the server, a green check mark will appear and the Monolith login screen will load.

<figure><img src="/files/VWSLqz0pkjSCdZeK5wor" alt=""><figcaption><p>Monolith On-Premises Server Connection</p></figcaption></figure>

If the connection does not validate, confirm that the endpoint is correct, the server is reachable from your device, and your organization’s network or VPN settings allow access to the Monolith server.

### Reset Monolith Connection Settings

If you need to change the Monolith Desktop connection settings after initial setup, use the **Reset Monolith** option on the Monolith login screen.

<figure><img src="/files/FwyBB73TVOZEbhu49V97" alt=""><figcaption><p>Monolith Login Page</p></figcaption></figure>

Resetting Monolith returns the desktop application to the API mode selection screen. From there, you can switch between cloud and on-premises mode, select a different cloud region, or enter a new on-premises API endpoint.

This can be useful if:

* You selected the wrong cloud region during setup
* Your on-premises server address changed
* You need to switch between cloud and on-premises environments
* Monolith Support asks you to reset your connection settings during troubleshooting