> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.crew.you/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.crew.you/apps/folder-permissions.md).

# Allowed Folders

Manage which folders on your computer Crew can read and write to. These settings live in the desktop app — the web version of Crew cannot access local files directly.

## Opening folder settings

1. Click the **Crew icon in your system tray**
   * Mac: top-right menu bar
   * Windows: bottom-right notification area (click the ^ arrow to expand hidden icons)
2. Choose **Settings…** from the menu
3. In the settings window, click the **Folders** tab on the left sidebar

You'll see the list of folders you've already approved.

## Adding a folder

1. On the Folders tab, click **+ Add Folder**
2. A native folder picker opens — navigate to the folder you want Crew to access
3. Click **Open** (Mac) or **Select Folder** (Windows)

The folder appears in your approved list and Crew can start reading and writing files inside it immediately.

You can add as many folders as you want. Common picks: your `Documents`, `Downloads`, a specific project directory, or a Dropbox/OneDrive folder.

## Changing access level

Each folder has two access modes:

* **Read + Write** (green badge) — Crew can read files and create or edit files
* **Read Only** (yellow badge) — Crew can read files but cannot modify anything

Click the badge next to a folder path to toggle between the two modes.

## Removing a folder

Click the **✕** button on the right side of the folder row. Crew immediately loses access to that folder.

## Safety

Crew can only access folders that appear in this list. Every other location on your computer is blocked at the OS level — Crew physically cannot read or write outside of approved folders. You stay in control.

## Troubleshooting

**I don't see the Folders tab**

* Make sure you opened the desktop app's settings window through the system tray icon, not the web dashboard or browser.
* If the tray icon is missing, restart the desktop app.

**The + Add Folder button does nothing**

* Restart the desktop app and try again. If the issue persists, reply to <support@crew.you> with your OS version.