Get started

Start from source today.

Packaged installers are still being prepared. If you are comfortable copying a few terminal commands, you can run the open-source project now.

Current availabilitySource setup is available. Verified Windows, macOS, and Linux installers are coming later.

Before you begin

Three things you need.

The current repository and application still use Pi Dashboard naming while the Foci rebrand is in progress.

1

Git

Downloads the source and makes future updates easier.

2

Node.js 20+

Runs the Dashboard’s Electron, backend, and web interface tooling.

3

A terminal

Use PowerShell on Windows or your normal terminal on macOS and Linux.

Source setup

Clone it, then start it.

Open a terminal in the parent folder where you want the source project stored.

1

Clone the repository

git clone https://github.com/mwiltb-design/pi-dashboard
cd pi-dashboard
2

Start the desktop application

Windows PowerShell
.\scripts\dev.ps1
macOS or Linux
./scripts/dev.sh

Your first project

From launch to useful work.

Start small. You only need to connect the services you actually intend to use.

STEP 01

Open the Dashboard

Wait for the desktop window and local services to finish starting.

STEP 02

Create a project workspace

Choose a clear project name. Sandboxed projects live under ~/Pi-Dashboards/.

STEP 03

Start with Basic

Begin in Chat, then use Files, Terminal, Sessions, or Sub-PI only when the task needs them.

STEP 04

Connect selectively

Authenticate only the AI providers and optional worker tools you plan to use.

STEP 05

Describe one goal

Tell the AI what you want to build, what success looks like, and which files or constraints matter.

STEP 06

Grow when needed

Move into Developer tools when previews, plugins, worker rules, or private remote access become useful.

Open foundation

Review before you run.

Foci Dashboard is free and open source under GPL-3.0. The repository is the source of truth for current setup requirements, known issues, and changes.

Browse the GitHub repository ↗