Setting Up Claude Cowork

Requirements

Before you can start using Cowork, ensure you have the following:

macOS

Currently, Cowork is available exclusively on macOS through the Claude Desktop application. Windows and Linux support may be added in future releases.

Max Subscription

Cowork requires an active Claude Max plan subscription. This ensures you have access to the compute resources needed for complex agentic tasks. Non-Max users can join the waitlist to request access in the future.

Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is required for API communication and task execution.

Granting Folder Access

Cowork requires explicit permission to access folders on your system. This permission model ensures your files remain secure while enabling powerful automation.

Step 1: Create a Dedicated Workspace

Create a specific folder for Cowork to access, for example:

• ~/CoworkSpace
• ~/Documents/CoworkProjects

Important: Keep sensitive files outside this folder. Only grant access to folders containing files you want Cowork to work with.

Step 2: Grant Access When Prompted

When you first use Cowork with a new folder:

1. You'll see a macOS security dialog
2. Click "Allow" to grant folder access
3. Cowork will confirm the permission was granted

Step 3: Manage Permissions in Settings

You can revoke or modify folder access anytime:

1. Open Claude Desktop
2. Go to Settings → Cowork → Folder Access
3. Add or remove folder permissions as needed

Switching to Cowork Mode

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Open Claude Desktop - Launch the application on your Mac
2. Find the Mode Selector - Look at the top of the interface
3. Locate the Tabs - You'll see "Chat" and "Cowork" options
4. Click Cowork - Switch to Tasks mode
5. Enter Your Task - Type a description of what you want to accomplish
6. Review the Plan - Cowork will show its proposed approach
7. Click Run - Execute the task

Important Notes

• The Claude Desktop app must remain open during task execution
• Closing the app will end your session and stop any running tasks
• You can switch back to Chat mode anytime without losing Cowork progress

Tips for Managing Workspace Folders

Use Dedicated Folders

Create separate folders for different project types to keep things organized:

• ~/CoworkSpace/Reports
• ~/CoworkSpace/FileOrganization
• ~/CoworkSpace/DataAnalysis

Isolate Sensitive Data

Never grant Cowork access to folders containing:

• Financial records
• Personal identification documents
• Passwords or credentials
• Confidential work materials

Organize Input Files

Place files you want Cowork to process in clearly labeled subfolders:

• ~/CoworkSpace/Input - Files to be processed
• ~/CoworkSpace/Output - Where results should go

Review Output Location

Before running tasks, understand where Cowork will save generated files. You can specify output locations in your task description.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

"Folder Access Denied"

• Check System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Files and Folders
• Ensure Claude Desktop has permission for your workspace

"Task Won't Start"

• Verify your Max subscription is active
• Check your internet connection
• Try restarting Claude Desktop

"Slow Performance"

• Close unnecessary applications
• Ensure sufficient disk space
• Check for large files in the workspace that may slow scanning