PWA Features
NodeWarden's web client is a Progressive Web App (PWA) that can be installed and used like a native application on your device.
Features
App Installation
When accessing NodeWarden in PWA-supported browsers (Chrome, Edge, Safari, etc.), you can install it to:
- Desktop - Runs as a standalone window without browser chrome
- Home Screen - Add to home screen on mobile devices, launches like a native app
App Shortcuts
Installed NodeWarden provides quick launch shortcuts:
- Open Vault - Jump directly to the vault page
- TOTP Codes - Quick access to TOTP verification codes
Right-click the app icon on desktop to see these shortcuts.
Offline Support
PWA provides offline capabilities through Service Worker:
- App Shell Caching - App interface loads even when offline
- Static Resource Caching - Icons, styles, scripts are automatically cached
- API Response Caching - Vault data cached locally
- Offline Fallback Page - Friendly message when network is unavailable
See Offline Usage for details.
How to Install
Chrome / Edge (Desktop)
- Visit NodeWarden URL
- Install icon (⊕) appears in address bar
- Click install icon and confirm
- App window opens automatically after installation
Safari (macOS)
- Visit NodeWarden URL
- Menu bar:
File→Add to Dock - Confirm addition
Safari (iOS)
- Open NodeWarden in Safari
- Tap the share button
- Select
Add to Home Screen - Confirm addition
Android Chrome
- Visit NodeWarden URL
- Browser automatically prompts for installation
- Or tap menu →
Install app
Display Modes
NodeWarden PWA supports the following display modes (in priority order):
- window-controls-overlay - Borderless window on desktop with title bar integrated into app
- standalone - Standalone app window without browser UI
Browser Compatibility
| Browser | Install Support | Offline Support | App Shortcuts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chrome (Desktop) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Edge (Desktop) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Safari (macOS) | ✅ | ✅ | ⚠️ Partial |
| Safari (iOS) | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Chrome (Android) | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Firefox | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ | ❌ |
Comparison with Desktop Client
PWA version compared to official desktop clients:
Advantages:
- No download or installation required
- Automatic updates
- Consistent cross-platform experience
- Small storage footprint
Limitations:
- Browser security restrictions
- Limited system integration features
- Depends on browser environment
Technical Details
NodeWarden PWA uses the following technologies:
- Web App Manifest - Defines app metadata, icons, shortcuts
- Service Worker - Provides offline caching and background sync
- Cache API - Manages static resources and API response caching
- IndexedDB - Stores vault data and offline unlock records
Related architecture docs: Frontend Architecture
FAQ
How to uninstall PWA?
Chrome / Edge (Desktop):
- Open the app
- Click menu (⋮) in top right
- Select
Uninstall NodeWarden
Safari (macOS):
- Drag icon out of dock to remove
Mobile Devices:
- Long press icon and delete like any regular app
Does PWA auto-update?
Yes. Service Worker checks for updates on each launch. New versions download in the background and take effect on next launch.
What are offline mode limitations?
Offline mode only accesses cached data. Cannot perform operations requiring server validation, such as creating new items, uploading attachments, or changing passwords. See Offline Usage Limitations.
Where is PWA data stored?
PWA data is stored in browser local storage:
- localStorage - Offline unlock records
- IndexedDB - Vault data cache
- Cache Storage - Static resources and API responses
Clearing browser data will also clear these caches.