# Install QH on macOS

## Download

Choose the processor shown in Apple menu → About This Mac:

- Apple M-series: [Apple Silicon ZIP](https://github.com/qentrah/qh/releases/latest/download/QH-macOS-arm64.zip).
- Intel processor: [Intel ZIP](https://github.com/qentrah/qh/releases/latest/download/QH-macOS-x64.zip).

The app bundles Bun, Node.js, and terminal dependencies. You do not need to install these separately to use the downloaded desktop app.

## Open the app

1. Extract the ZIP into a writable folder.
2. Open `QH.app`; configuration and SQLite are stored in the local application data folder.
3. Open `QH.app`.
4. Use the three-dot menu → New Tab to create another shell.

A shell should appear with a prompt. Type `pwd` and press Enter to check its starting folder.

This preview is not notarized. If macOS blocks it, check System Settings → Privacy & Security for the approval control. If configuration cannot be saved, check that your local application data folder is writable.

## Verify a download

Download the matching checksum: [Apple Silicon](https://github.com/qentrah/qh/releases/latest/download/QH-macOS-arm64.sha256) or [Intel](https://github.com/qentrah/qh/releases/latest/download/QH-macOS-x64.sha256). Keep it beside the matching ZIP, then run the appropriate command in that folder:

```sh
shasum -a 256 -c QH-macOS-arm64.sha256
# For an Intel download instead:
shasum -a 256 -c QH-macOS-x64.sha256
```

Expect the matching ZIP filename followed by `OK`. A mismatch means the file does not match the published checksum; download it again before opening it.

Continue with [configuration](/docs/qh/configuration) or [CLI setup](/docs/qh/cli).