Documentation
Getting started with DeskWell
Everything you need to set up and make the most of DeskWell.
🚀 Getting Started
1. Install DeskWell
Download DeskWell from the download page. On macOS, open the .dmg file and drag DeskWell to your Applications folder.
2. Grant Permissions
DeskWell needs camera access for posture and eye tracking, and accessibility access for keyboard/mouse monitoring (RSI prevention). You will be prompted on first launch.
macOS: System Settings → Privacy & Security → Accessibility → Enable DeskWell
3. Calibrate
Sit in your normal, comfortable position and follow the calibration wizard. This takes about 30 seconds and teaches DeskWell what good posture looks like for your unique body and workspace setup.
4. Start Working
DeskWell runs quietly in your menu bar. It will gently notify you when your posture needs attention, when it is time for an eye break, or when you should take a micro-break for RSI prevention.
💻 System Requirements
| Requirement | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Operating System | macOS 12+, Windows 10+, Ubuntu 20.04+ |
| Memory | 4GB RAM (app uses under 80MB) |
| CPU | Any modern processor (uses under 5% CPU) |
| Camera | Any webcam (built-in or external) |
| Disk Space | ~150MB |
| Network | Not required (100% offline) |
🛡 Privacy & Security
DeskWell is built on a privacy-first architecture. Here is how it works:
On-Device AI
MediaPipe runs entirely on your CPU/GPU. No cloud API calls. The ML model is bundled with the app.
No Network Access
DeskWell has no server endpoints. It cannot phone home even if someone wanted it to. Optional update checks are the only exception.
Local Storage
All data lives in a local SQLite database on your machine. No cloud sync, no backups to external services.
No Keylogging
RSI tracking measures aggregate input intensity only. Individual keystrokes are never recorded or stored.
Read our full privacy policy for more details.
🔧 Troubleshooting
Camera not detected
Make sure DeskWell has camera permissions in your system settings. On macOS: System Settings > Privacy & Security > Camera. Try restarting the app after granting permissions.
Posture scores seem inaccurate
Re-run the calibration wizard from Settings. Make sure you are sitting in your ideal posture during calibration. Ensure good lighting so your camera can see you clearly.
High CPU usage
DeskWell should use under 5% CPU. If you see higher usage, check that no other apps are competing for the camera. You can also reduce the analysis frequency in Settings.
Accessibility permissions on macOS
DeskWell needs accessibility access for RSI monitoring (keyboard/mouse tracking). Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Accessibility and enable DeskWell. You may need to remove and re-add the app.
App not starting
On macOS, you may need to allow DeskWell in System Settings > Privacy & Security > General (click 'Open Anyway'). On Linux, make sure the AppImage has executable permissions.
❓ FAQ
Does DeskWell work without a webcam?
The RSI prevention feature works without a camera (it tracks keyboard/mouse usage). However, posture and eye health features require a webcam.
Can I use DeskWell with an external monitor?
Yes. As long as your webcam can see you, DeskWell works with any monitor setup. Just make sure the camera is positioned to see your upper body.
Does it work in the dark?
DeskWell works best with reasonable lighting. Most webcams struggle in very low light, which can affect pose estimation accuracy.
How do I uninstall DeskWell?
On macOS, drag DeskWell from Applications to Trash. On Windows, use Add/Remove Programs. On Linux, delete the AppImage. All local data is removed with the app.