Troubleshooting and FAQ
Fixes for common Machine Code problems, where it keeps its files, and answers to common questions.
Common problems
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Windows protected your PC when installing | The Windows installer isn't code-signed yet. Click More info, then Run anyway. |
| The first launch takes a while | Machine Code sets up its background service the first time. Later launches are quicker. |
| The Machine Code service on this PC failed to start | Quit Machine Code completely and open it again. If it keeps happening, open the help menu, choose Run diagnostics, and send the result to Machine support. |
| A model you expect isn't in the picker | Check you're in the right Machine project (account menu › Switch project). Claude and Cursor plans connected on the Machine web app only run in Machine Cloud. To use them locally, see Your plans on this PC. |
| Worktree isn't offered under Run on | The folder isn't a git repository. Run git init, or add the repository's top folder. |
| An agent is out of credits | Top up your Machine balance on the web, then send the message again. |
| The status bar says no language server was found | Install the language server for that language. See Code editor. |
| No Machine Code updates are published for this platform yet | There's no update for your system yet. Check again later. |
Where Machine Code keeps things
| What | Where |
|---|---|
| Your code, branches, and worktrees | In your repositories, on disk. |
| App settings (Windows) | %APPDATA%\Machine Code |
| Agent history and local service data | .machine-ide in your home folder |
| Cloud sessions, connectors, secrets, automations in Machine Cloud | Your Machine project |
Common questions
Do agents see my Machine key? No. Machine Code keeps the key and makes model and connector calls for the agent. The agent never holds it.
Can I use Machine Code without the internet? No. Agents use Machine's models and your Machine account, so it needs to be online.
Is there a phone app for Machine Code? Not yet. You can follow Machine Cloud sessions from the Machine web app and Machine Mobile.
Can I open the same project in Machine Desktop? Machine Code and Machine Desktop share your Machine account and cloud sessions. Local tasks in Machine Code live on your computer and show only there.
How do I report a problem? Open the help menu (Help and support in the sidebar) and choose Report an issue.