Which version do I need?

Turn Off PC offers two versions of the desktop application: Standalone and Embedded. Each version is designed for different needs and platforms.

This guide explains the differences between them so you can choose the one that best fits your setup.

Available platforms and distribution

The Embedded version is available through the official app stores (Microsoft Store, Snap Store, etc.).

The Standalone version is distributed exclusively through the Turn Off PC website. This is because it uses advanced system-level features (such as starting before user login) that are not permitted by app store policies.

Standalone version

The Standalone version is the most advanced version of Turn Off PC.

In this version, the server and the interface run independently from each other:

• The server always starts automatically on boot, even before you log in to your user account
• The interface is optional — you can configure whether it opens on startup or stays hidden in the system tray

Key advantages:

• Control before login — your PC is reachable and controllable from your phone even if no user session is active
• Faster and more efficient — the server is lightweight and runs separately from the interface. On Windows, the Standalone version starts significantly faster than the Embedded version
• Full tray control — decide whether the interface launches on startup or remains in the system tray, ready when you need it. Closing the interface does not affect the server — it keeps running independently
• Available on all platforms — Windows, macOS, and Linux

This is the recommended version for most users.

Windows SmartScreen warning (Standalone only)

When installing the Standalone version on Windows, SmartScreen may show a warning. This is completely normal and does not mean the application is unsafe.

This happens because the Standalone version is not signed with a code signing certificate. These certificates cost hundreds of euros per year, and Turn Off PC is a project with very limited funding that cannot afford this type of certification.

The application is completely safe. If you prefer not to see this warning, you can use the Embedded version from the Microsoft Store instead, which does not require a certificate — although it is not as powerful as the Standalone version.

Embedded version

The Embedded version bundles the server and the interface together into a single application.

• The server only runs while the application is running
• The application requires an active user session to work
• Simpler to set up, but with fewer capabilities

Key characteristics:

• Requires login — the server does not start until you log in to your user account
• No independent server — the server is tied to the interface. When you close the window, the app moves to the system tray. If you close it from the tray, a confirmation popup will appear warning that the server will stop. If you confirm, the server shuts down completely
• Available on Windows and Linux — not available on macOS

Comparison

Which one should I choose?

Choose Standalone if:

• You want full control over your PC
• The server is always running, even before you log in
• You can wake up, shut down, or manage your PC at any time from your phone
• You decide whether the interface opens automatically or stays in the tray
• You have a low-resource computer — it uses fewer resources and starts significantly faster, especially on Windows

Choose Embedded if:

• You only need to control your PC while you are logged in
• You prefer to install from an app store
• You are on Windows or Linux

If you are on macOS, the Standalone version is your only option.

No matter which version you choose, don't forget to leave a review in the stores — it helps a lot!