Tableau Desktop download: the complete setup reference
This page is for people who want specifics: which installer, which version, what the computer needs, and what to do after the files are copied.
Choose the right Tableau Desktop download
Tableau Desktop ships as separate installers for Windows and macOS. Both include the same authoring features, so pick the one that matches your computer rather than your preference.
Latest release
Recommended for most people. It includes the newest features and fixes.
Earlier release
Useful when your colleagues or server run an older version and workbooks must stay compatible.
Workbooks saved in a newer version generally cannot be opened in an older one. Match versions across your team if you share files.
System requirements
Exact numbers change from release to release, so confirm them in the current tech specs. These are the typical categories to check.
| Item | Windows | macOS |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 64-bit, multi-core recommended | Apple silicon or Intel |
| Memory | 8 GB or more suggested | 8 GB or more suggested |
| Disk space | Several GB free for app and extracts | Several GB free for app and extracts |
| OS | Supported Windows release | Supported macOS release |
| Display | 1366 × 768 or larger | 1440 × 900 or larger |
| Network | Needed for activation and live sources | Needed for activation and live sources |
Install Tableau Desktop step by step
Download the installer
Save the file to a folder you can find later, such as Downloads.
Close other programs
Quit anything that might lock files, especially older Tableau windows or Excel workbooks you plan to connect to.
Run the setup
On Windows, double-click the .exe. On Mac, open the .dmg and run the .pkg inside.
Accept the license and choose a location
The default folder works for nearly everyone.
Launch and register
The first start asks for your name, company and activation choice.
Activate your copy
After installation, Tableau Desktop runs in one of two modes: a time-limited trial, or a licensed mode that unlocks the full subscription period.
With a product key
Open the Help menu, choose Manage Product Keys, and paste the key you received. Tableau will confirm the expiry date.
With a trial
Choose the trial option at first launch and complete the short registration. The countdown starts immediately.
Offline activation
Computers without internet access can activate by generating a request file and completing the exchange from a connected machine.
Keep Tableau Desktop up to date
Updates add features and close security gaps. Open the Help menu and look for the update option, or download a fresh installer and run it over the existing one.
- Back up important workbooks before major upgrades
- Check that your server version supports files from the new release
- Restart the app after the installation completes
Notes for IT administrators
Rolling Tableau Desktop out to many machines? Use the command-line options of the installer for silent setup, pass the product key during installation, and pin one version across the department.
- Silent install
- Runs without dialogs. Useful with deployment tools.
- Registration file
- Pre-fills user details so employees skip the form.
- Version pinning
- Keeps everyone on the same release for compatibility.
- Data drivers
- Install database drivers on the same machine as the app.
Tableau Desktop download FAQ
Is the Tableau Desktop download free?
The installer is available to download, and new users can run it as a trial. Continued use requires a license.
How big is the installer?
Expect a few hundred megabytes, depending on the platform and version.
Can I run it on a virtual machine?
Many teams do. Give the VM enough memory and make sure it meets the same requirements as a physical computer.
Does it work without internet?
After activation, yes. You can keep building from local files and extracts offline.
How do I uninstall it?
Use Apps and Features on Windows, or drag the application to the Trash on Mac. Your saved workbooks stay in your documents folder.
Grab the Tableau Desktop installer
Windows and Mac builds, with a trial for first-time users.