FAQ & troubleshooting
Quick answers.
My phone doesn’t find the PC.
Check both are on the same network, and that the Windows firewall allows helm-agent on Private networks. If your network is set to Public, change it to Private in Windows settings.
The QR code says it expired.
Tokens last 5 minutes. Press p + Enter in the agent console or use the tray menu for a new one.
Does Helm send my data anywhere?
No. There are no accounts. Traffic goes only between your phone and your PC (or through a relay you deploy, which sees only ciphertext).
Is it free?
Yes. Helm is free to download and use on the PC and the phone, and it needs no account.
iPhone or Mac?
Not yet. Helm is Windows PC + Android today.
Does Helm work on Windows 11?
Yes. Helm runs on Windows 10 and Windows 11, and Windows 11 already includes the WebView2 runtime the desktop app needs. The phone needs Android 8.0 or newer.
Is Helm an alternative to Unified Remote, KDE Connect or Remote Mouse?
Yes, for a Windows PC and an Android phone. It does the remote, touchpad, files and buttons in one free app. See Helm vs alternatives for a fair comparison, including when another app fits better.
Two agents are fighting over the port.
Only one agent runs per data folder and Windows session; a second one exits. Quit the tray agent before starting another from the console.