# System requirements

> The operating systems, hardware and optional tools you need to run Vato Desktop.

Vato Desktop runs on macOS and Windows. Check this page before you [install Vato](./install.md).

## Supported systems

The [download page](https://vatoide.com/download.html) offers three builds:

| Build | For |
| --- | --- |
| **macOS · Apple Silicon** | Macs with an M-series chip. |
| **macOS · Intel** | Older Macs with an Intel processor. |
| **Windows · x64** | 64-bit Windows PCs. |

> [!NOTE]
> There is no Linux build of Vato Desktop.

## Minimum configuration

| | Minimum |
| --- | --- |
| macOS | 13 Ventura or later |
| Windows | Windows 10 (build 1909) or later, 64-bit |
| Memory | 8 GB, 16 GB recommended |
| Disk | 1.2 GB for the app and its index |

The Vato window can't be made smaller than 880 × 520 pixels, so your screen must be at least that size.

## Account and connection

- You need a **Vato account**. New accounts may need to be approved by a Vato administrator before they can download the app.
- You need an internet connection to sign in, to receive updates and to work with cloud AI providers.
- Vato does not include AI usage. Each agent runs on your own provider account or API key. See [Start your first conversation](../agents/first-conversation.md).

## Optional tools

Vato works without these tools. Install them to unlock the features listed.

| Tool | What it unlocks |
| --- | --- |
| **Git** | Branch information, incoming commits and worktrees for projects that are Git repositories. |
| **GitHub CLI** (`gh`), signed in with `gh auth login` | The **GitHub** view: pull requests, issues and Actions. |
| **Google Chrome** or **Microsoft Edge** (or **Chromium** on macOS) | The session browser built into each conversation. |
| **Claude Code** 2.1.280 or later | Claude conversations run on your installed `claude` command. |
| **Codex CLI** 0.124.0 or later | Codex conversations run on your installed `codex` command. |

If Claude Code or Codex is missing or older than these versions, Vato uses the runtime it ships with instead. **Settings → Providers** shows which one is in use: **Installed CLI** or **Vato bundled runtime**, followed by the version.

## On your phone

The mobile companion app is optional. It follows the conversations that run on your computer. See [Set up the mobile app](../mobile/companion-app.md).

## Next step

[Install Vato and sign in](./install.md).

Source: https://vatoide.com/docs/getting-started/system-requirements