// troubleshooting guide · espanso
Espanso Won't Start
- Status
- Workaround available
- platforms:
- Linux, macOS, Windows
- updated:
- November 15, 2026
- reports:
- 2
- Method
- how we research
RUNBOOK · espanso/not-starting4 FIXES
// quick answer
If Espanso times out or fails to start, check the service registration and input permissions, then try unmanaged mode.
Most likely fix: Reset the service
How to fix it
// try these in order, the most common fix is first
FIX 1Reset the service
- 01Run `espanso service register`
- 02Run `espanso start`
Did this fix it?FIX 2Run unmanaged
- 01Run `espanso start --unmanaged`
Did this fix it?FIX 3Linux permissions
- 01Apply setcap as in the Wayland guide
Did this fix it?FIX 4Check logs
- 01Run `espanso log`
Did this fix it?
Symptoms
`espanso start` times out or shows an error about services or input devices.
Why it happens
- C-01Service not registered
- C-02Missing permissions to /dev/input
- C-03Wrong build for session type
- C-04Another instance running
// this guide also covers
- espanso won't start
- espanso service timed out
- espanso fedora
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