Initial Configuration

Set up your Plainpad account after your first login to get the best experience.

First Login

When you first log in to Plainpad, you'll be presented with the main note-taking interface. Before you start creating notes, it's a good idea to review your account settings.

Accessing Settings

Click on the Settings icon (gear icon) in the application to open the settings panel. Here you can configure:

  • Your display name
  • Email address
  • Password
  • Language preferences
  • Encryption settings

Setting Up Encryption

If you want to encrypt your notes, navigate to the encryption settings and enable database encryption. You will be asked to create a passphrase.

Important: Remember your encryption passphrase. If you lose it, your encrypted notes cannot be recovered. There is no "forgot passphrase" option because the server never has access to your encryption key.

Installing as a PWA

For the best experience, install Plainpad as a Progressive Web App on your device:

Chrome / Edge

  1. Navigate to your Plainpad URL
  2. Click the install icon in the address bar (or the three-dot menu → "Install Plainpad")
  3. Plainpad will appear as a standalone app on your device

Safari (iOS)

  1. Open your Plainpad URL in Safari
  2. Tap the Share button
  3. Select "Add to Home Screen"

Choosing Your View

Plainpad offers a clean, minimal interface. You can:

  • Use the note list panel on the left to browse and select notes
  • Use the editor panel on the right to write and edit
  • Use the search bar to quickly filter notes by content

Continue to Understanding User Roles to learn about the different permission levels in Plainpad.