Installation guide

Install and verify Mac and Windows app downloads

Check the exact website package, its requirements and its signing status before opening it. Slipstream includes Mac and Windows installers in one ZIP; the two platforms have separate security checks.

By IndepApps · Updated 11 October 2026

Start with the product's current release

Use the download link in your purchase confirmation or email. Match the app name, archive filename, app versions and system requirements against the product page. Keep signed delivery links private and retain the downloaded installer and receipt. The website edition can differ from an App Store edition or a later source-code build.

Most apps here are for macOS. Slipstream's complete edition runs on macOS 13 or later on Apple silicon or Intel, and Windows 10/11 on x64 or ARM64. On Mac, check About This Mac; on Windows, check Settings → System → About, including System type. Those app requirements do not certify every USB-C port or cable for host-to-host networking.

Compare the archive's SHA-256 checksum

A SHA-256 comparison checks whether your downloaded file matches the bytes recorded for that published package. It is separate from a digital signature and does not establish that an app is safe. Compare the same archive before extracting it; a ZIP checksum cannot be compared with a PKG, EXE or app bundle inside it.

For Slipstream's current package, use the filename and checksum in its published download record. These read-only examples assume your terminal is open in the folder containing the ZIP.

Mac: Terminal

shasum -a 256 "Slipstream-Mac-0.2.24-Windows-0.2.22.zip"

Windows: PowerShell

Get-FileHash -LiteralPath ".\Slipstream-Mac-0.2.24-Windows-0.2.22.zip" -Algorithm SHA256

Compare all 64 hexadecimal characters; letter case does not matter. If the result differs, stop using that copy and download again from the original delivery link. If a second copy differs, send support the app name, filename and error details. Do not send the private download link.

Install the Mac edition

Extract the archive, then use the Mac installer and the package's included instructions. For an app distributed in a disk image, follow that product's drag-to-Applications instructions. Keep the app bundle intact rather than moving files out of it.

Developer ID signing identifies the developer and detects changes to signed code. Apple notarization is a separate check for known malicious software. Read the exact release record: Slipstream's Mac app is Developer ID signed, while its installer PKG is unsigned and the app is not Apple-notarized. Another product's notarization does not cover Slipstream.

A first-launch download confirmation, an unidentified-developer warning and a damaged-app or malware warning are different messages. Record the exact wording. A damaged or modified app should be downloaded again and checked; do not clear quarantine metadata or disable Gatekeeper to force it open. For an unnotarized release, review the source and signing details with support before deciding whether to use Apple's documented per-app exception.

Apple explains the different Mac security alerts and per-app options. Once installed, grant only the permissions needed for your chosen workflow. Slipstream's input bridge may request Accessibility; a completed installation alone does not pair the second computer.

Install the Windows edition included with Slipstream

Extract the same customer ZIP on Windows and follow its Windows instructions. Match the packaged Windows version to the product's download record. The current ZIP includes Mac 0.2.24 (build 29) and Windows 0.2.22; the version numbers differ deliberately. Official Microsoft WebView2 x64 and ARM64 runtime installers are included; Setup uses the matching installer if the runtime is missing. No separate runtime download is required.

The current Windows binaries are not Authenticode signed. Windows can show an unknown-publisher or SmartScreen reputation prompt; a signed new file can also lack reputation. Review the specific package and warning rather than assuming it is harmless. Keep SmartScreen, antivirus and firewall protections enabled. If a managed PC blocks the installation, ask its administrator or contact support instead of weakening its policy.

Microsoft documents download reputation and signing, Windows app and browser controls, and where to check System type. Slipstream's Windows 10 compatibility is an app requirement, not a statement that Microsoft still provides general Windows 10 support.

Finish the connection separately

Open Slipstream on both computers, select the intended connection mode and approve the peer identity. Cable-only operation needs compatible Thunderbolt/USB4 host networking on both computers and a suitable cable. An ordinary USB-C connector or charging cable is insufficient. Use the Mac–Windows USB-C setup guide for adapter checks, pairing, input, clipboard and a small verified file-copy test.

Keep local input available for Windows login, UAC and protected surfaces. See the current feature limits and comparison with Synergy and other desk-sharing tools before choosing a workflow.

Frequently asked questions

Does a damaged-app warning mean the download is intact?

No. A damaged-app warning can indicate modification or corruption. Download again from your original purchase link, compare the published package checksum and contact support if the warning persists. Do not remove quarantine metadata to force the app to open.

Does a matching SHA-256 prove an app is safe?

No. It confirms that the downloaded archive matches the publisher's recorded bytes. It does not replace signature checks, operating-system security checks or your decision to trust the publisher.

Does every website installer have the same signing status?

No. Signing and notarization describe an exact release and platform. Read the product's current release details; a Mac App Store edition or another app's notarization does not certify the website installer.

Why can Windows show an unknown-publisher or SmartScreen prompt?

Windows evaluates downloaded files and their publisher reputation. Unsigned files can produce an unknown-publisher or reputation prompt, and a newly signed file can also lack reputation. A prompt is not proof that the file is harmless. Keep protections enabled and ask support about the exact package if you are unsure.

Does the download link expiry stop an installed app working?

No. The expiry applies to the single-use delivery link. Keep the downloaded installer and receipt. If the original link is expired or already used, contact support from your checkout address instead of buying the app again.

Get help with the exact package

For a persistent warning or interrupted download, contact support with the app version, both OS versions when relevant, processor type and exact error text. For Slipstream connection questions, include the cable, ports and selected connection mode. Remove private content and credentials from screenshots. Do not repurchase to repair an expired link.

References checked 10 October 2026. This guide describes the published website packages and does not claim that signing, checksum matching or installation certifies every hardware configuration.