# Install Merca on Windows

> Download and install Merca on Windows, then prepare the bundled browser engine for your first store launch.

Source: https://merca.getchrovia.com/en/docs/install-windows

## Requirements

- Windows 10 or later, 64-bit
- A computer (not a phone browser)

## Download

1. Open [Downloads](https://merca.getchrovia.com/en/download).
2. Under **Merca**, choose **Windows**.
3. Save the `.exe` installer.

![Download Merca for Windows](https://merca.getchrovia.com/docs/screenshots/install-download.webp)

## Allow the Windows security prompt

Double-click the installer. Windows may show **Windows protected your PC** (Microsoft Defender SmartScreen).

1. Choose **More info**.
2. Choose **Run anyway**.

![Windows protected your PC](https://merca.getchrovia.com/docs/screenshots/install-windows-smartscreen.webp)

![More info, then Run anyway](https://merca.getchrovia.com/docs/screenshots/install-windows-run-anyway.webp)

If Windows then asks **Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device?**, choose **Yes**.

If the `.exe` is blocked before it starts, right-click the file → **Properties** → tick **Unblock** if it is there → **OK**, then open the installer again.

## Install

The installer is a normal setup wizard. You can keep the default folder or choose another directory. Finish the wizard.

## Open Merca

Open **Merca** from the Start menu or the desktop shortcut.

1. Sign in or create an account.
2. Wait until the bundled browser engine is ready. Launching a store needs that engine.

![Merca after sign-in](https://merca.getchrovia.com/docs/screenshots/install-windows-app.webp)

If you use the website in a normal browser, launching a store or checking a node still needs this desktop app with the same account.

## Updates

On Windows, open **Help** in the app and choose **Check for updates**. When a build is ready, restart to install it.

Need macOS instead? See [Install Merca on macOS](https://merca.getchrovia.com/en/docs/install-macos).