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# Installation Guide

Fractum offers multiple installation methods to accommodate various security requirements and user preferences. This guide covers Docker installation (recommended for security), manual installation, and system requirements.

## Quick Start Summary

For most users, Docker installation is recommended because it provides:

- Complete network isolation with `--network=none`
- Non-root execution for security
- Minimal attack surface
- Consistent environment across platforms

Installation time: 2-5 minutes depending on your method

## Installation Methods Overview

Use Docker (Recommended) Manual Method

### Docker Installation (Recommended for Security)

Why Docker is recommended:

✅ Enhanced security with complete network isolation
✅ Non-root execution following minimal privilege principles
✅ Minimal attack surface with hardened container
✅ Read-only application code for integrity
✅ Ephemeral environment that leaves no traces

Docker installation is ideal for:

- Security-conscious users
- Air-gapped environments
- Production deployments
- Users who want maximum isolation

Complete Docker setup guide →

### Manual Installation (For Flexibility)

Manual installation is suitable when:

- Docker isn't available in your environment
- You need custom Python environments
- You prefer full control over the installation
- You're developing or contributing to Fractum

Manual installation features:

- Installation via Python virtual environments
- Cross-platform bootstrap scripts for Windows, macOS, Linux
- Developer-friendly setup with source code access
- Integration with existing Python workflows

Complete manual installation guide →

## Installation Security Considerations

Before installing Fractum, consider these security best practices:

✅ Verify authenticity using PGP signatures
✅ Use air-gapped systems for high-security scenarios

For maximum security:

1. Use the Docker installation method
2. Run on an air-gapped system
3. Verify all downloads using cryptographic signatures
4. Follow the security best practices guide

## What Happens After Installation?

Once Fractum is installed, you can:

1. Encrypt your first file - Split sensitive data into secure shares
2. Configure threshold settings - Define how many shares are needed for recovery
3. Distribute shares securely - Store shares with trusted custodians
4. Test recovery process - Verify you can reconstruct your data

## Next Steps After Installation

Essential reading after installation:

- 📁 Encrypt your first file - Learn the basic encryption workflow
- 🔓 Decrypt a file using shares - Understand the recovery process
- 🔒 Security best practices - Essential security guidelines
- 🏗️ Security architecture - Deep dive into how Fractum works

## Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Need help? Report installation issues on GitHub

## Key Takeaways

In summary:

✅ Docker installation is recommended for maximum security and isolation
✅ Manual installation provides flexibility for development and custom setups
✅ Cross-platform support covers Windows, macOS, and Linux
✅ Minimal system requirements make Fractum accessible on most hardware
✅ Air-gapped operation works without internet connectivity
✅ Multiple verification methods ensure authentic installations

Installation typically takes 2-5 minutes and provides enterprise-grade secret sharing capabilities immediately.

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