Draw.io

drawio-desktop is an open-source web app and server that provides a dedicated desktop environment for creating diagrams. It wraps the core draw.io editor in an Electron shell, allowing users to create visual documentation, flowcharts, and project maps without relying on a web browser. This makes it a viable option for users who need a consistent design tool that functions independently of a network connection.

The application is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Windows users can choose between a per-machine installer requiring administrator privileges, a per-user MSI installer, or a portable executable that runs without installation. It is distributed under the Apache 2.0 license, allowing it to be used for any purpose provided the code is accepted as-is. The software is designed to be installed as a standalone desktop application, though it maintains the same interface and functionality as the web-based editor.

Key features

• Offline diagram editing via a self-contained Electron wrapper
• Local storage of diagram data in the system AppData folder
• Content Security Policy to prevent remotely loaded JavaScript
• Isolation from the internet to ensure data privacy
• Option to disable automatic update checks via environment variables
• Support for external media references within diagrams
• Multiple installation formats including portable builds for Windows

The software is built using JavaScript and Electron, focusing heavily on security and isolation. It does not transmit diagram data or usage analytics to external servers. While diagrams can reference external images or fonts via URLs, the application restricts network connections to prevent unauthorized data transmission. The update process is the only default external connection, which checks GitHub for newer versions at startup. This architecture makes it suitable for users in secure environments or organizations with strict data sovereignty requirements who require a local tool for visualization and documentation.

It serves as a privacy-focused desktop implementation of the draw.io editor for users who prefer local software over cloud-based diagramming tools.