Installation Guide

Get Alva up and running on your system in a few minutes.

1

Download

Download the installer for your operating system from the home page.

2

Install

macOS: Open the .dmg file and drag the Alva icon into your Applications folder.

Windows: Run the .exe installer and follow the setup wizard. If Windows Defender SmartScreen shows a warning, click "More info" then "Run anyway" to proceed.

macOS note: If a security prompt appears, go to System Settings → Privacy & Security to allow the app.

Windows note: The SmartScreen warning is normal for apps without a digital signature. Alva is safe to install.
3

First Launch

On first launch, Alva automatically installs all required dependencies (Node.js, Codex CLI). This only takes a few moments.

The app checks for Node.js v18+ and installs Codex CLI if needed. No manual setup required.
4

Sign In

Click "Sign in with ChatGPT". A browser window will open where you can log in with your existing ChatGPT account.

You need an active ChatGPT account to use Alva.
5

You're all set

Alva is now installed and ready to use. Select a project folder and start chatting with AI about your code.

Next steps: Check out the features section on the home page to discover everything Alva can do.