Flow Launcher FAQ: Downloads, Search, Plugins and Settings
Start with the exact task: activation, app search, file search, or a plugin action. Each uses a different part of the launcher, so a clear question makes troubleshooting more effective.
Questions and answers
What is Flow Launcher?
Flow Launcher is an open-source Windows utility for keyboard-driven app launching, file searches, calculations, and plugin actions.
Which Windows versions does Flow Launcher 2.x support?
The current branch targets Windows 10 and Windows 11. Older Windows compatibility statements refer to older branches, not the current package.
How do I open Flow Launcher?
The default hotkey is Alt+Space. You can change it in Settings if another application uses the same combination.
Where should I start when file search returns nothing?
Check the Explorer plugin and its selected engine. Compare the same filename in Windows Search or Everything before reinstalling Flow.
Is Flow Launcher free?
The project is open source and publishes the software under the MIT license. Individual third-party services used by plugins may have their own accounts or fees.
Does every plugin need internet access?
No. Local features and remote integrations have different requirements. Review the plugin’s own documentation.
Do all plugins need Python?
No. Native .NET plugins and plugins using other supported runtimes have different requirements.
How can I back up my settings?
Locate the active folder with flow launcher userdata, exit the application, and copy that folder to a secure backup.
Why does a website Download button not prove file safety?
The actual delivered file and its source must be checked. This site’s FileDrop destination and payload have not been independently verified.
Are the guides based on Windows benchmarks?
No. They are documentation-based procedures. Website validation and Windows application testing are different activities; the methodology page states the scope.