# Getting started: from install to your first post (https://clout.wtf/guide/getting-started/)



[Download Clout Uploader](https://clout.wtf/builds/) for macOS or Windows, then follow the path below — from installation to your first automated TikTok post. Each step links to a focused guide.

> **Note:** Quick path from zero to first post:
>
> 1. Install Clout Uploader (this page)
> 2. [Connect the iPhone via USB](https://clout.wtf/guide/connect-iphones/) and enable Developer Mode
> 3. [Prepare the iPhone](https://clout.wtf/guide/device-setup/) — iOS settings automation depends on
> 4. [Install Clout App](https://clout.wtf/guide/install-clout-app/) and trust the certificate
> 5. Activate your license (this page)
> 6. [Add TikTok accounts](https://clout.wtf/guide/adding-accounts/)
> 7. [Configure a template and start a thread](https://clout.wtf/guide/posting-schedule/)

## System requirements

### Computer

|                         | macOS                                     | Windows                               |
| ----------------------- | ----------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------- |
| **OS**                  | macOS 14 (Sonoma) or later, Apple Silicon | Windows 10 22H2 or Windows 11, 64-bit |
| **Additional software** | None required                             | iTunes from apple.com (see below)     |
| **Privileges**          | Regular user                              | Administrator                         |

> **Note:** Python and other developer tools are **not required** — everything needed is included in the installer.

#### Additional Windows requirements

1. **iTunes from apple.com** — download the standalone installer from [apple.com](https://www.apple.com/itunes/download/win64), *not* the Microsoft Store version and not third-party tools. Clout Uploader relies on Apple's device service (Apple Mobile Device Service) that only the apple.com installer provides. Restart the PC after installation.

### iPhone

| Requirement   | Details                                      |
| ------------- | -------------------------------------------- |
| **Model**     | iPhone 11 or newer                           |
| **iOS**       | 17 or later                                  |
| **TikTok**    | Installed on the device                      |
| **USB cable** | Original Apple or MFi-certified              |
| **Apple ID**  | With two-factor authentication (2FA) enabled |

Full hardware details — models, cables, hubs, iOS settings — in [Prepare your iPhones](https://clout.wtf/guide/device-setup/).

## Install Clout Uploader

**macOS:**

1. Download the `.dmg` file
2. Open it with a double-click
3. Drag **Clout Uploader** into the **Applications** folder
4. Launch from Launchpad or the Applications folder
5. If macOS warns about an unidentified developer — open **System Settings → Privacy & Security** and click **Open Anyway**

**Windows:**

1. Download `CloutUploader-X.X.X-setup.exe`
2. Run the installer and follow the setup wizard
3. After installation, launch **Clout Uploader** from the desktop or Start menu
4. **Important:** run the app **as administrator** (right-click → "Run as administrator")

After launching, the Clout Uploader window will open with a sidebar navigation menu.

## Activate your license

Thread execution is blocked without an active license.

1. Open **License** in the sidebar
2. Enter your license key
3. Click **Activate**
4. After successful activation, your license info will be displayed: plan, expiration, limits

> **Note:** The license key is tied to a specific computer. To transfer it, click **Deactivate** on the current machine first.

## What's next

1. [Connect iPhones over USB](https://clout.wtf/guide/connect-iphones/) — cable, trust, Developer Mode, multiple devices
2. [Prepare your iPhones](https://clout.wtf/guide/device-setup/) — supported models and required iOS settings
3. [Install Clout App](https://clout.wtf/guide/install-clout-app/) — one-click, API keys, or Xcode
4. [Add TikTok accounts](https://clout.wtf/guide/adding-accounts/) — lists and per-device limits
5. [Posting schedule and threads](https://clout.wtf/guide/posting-schedule/) — templates, auto schedule, monitoring

Hit a problem along the way? Check [Troubleshooting](https://clout.wtf/guide/troubleshooting/).

## Further reading on the blog

* [How to Automate TikTok in 2026: The Complete Guide](https://clout.wtf/blog/tiktok-automation-guide/)
* [Is TikTok Automation Worth It? ROI, Risks, and Real Numbers](https://clout.wtf/blog/is-tiktok-automation-worth-it/)
* [API Bots vs Real-Device Automation: Which TikTok Bot Actually Works in 2026?](https://clout.wtf/blog/api-bots-vs-real-device-automation/)