> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.screendesk.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.screendesk.io/screen-recorder/record-and-capture/screen-recording/desktop-recording.md).

# Desktop recording

Record a window or your entire screen to capture cross-tab and multi-window bugs.

Use desktop recording to capture a screen, window, or tab selected in Chrome's sharing picker.

## Start a desktop recording

1. Open Screendesk and expand **Recording settings**.
2. Set **Record area** to **Desktop**.
3. Choose your camera and microphone devices if needed, and turn their toggles on.
4. Choose **Record Desktop**.
5. Select the screen, window, or tab in Chrome's picker and confirm sharing.

If you enabled the camera, Screendesk prepares a picture-in-picture camera preview during setup. After you select the shared surface, return to the original page for the countdown. You do not need to start a second recording from a separate setup window.

End the recording using Screendesk's recording controls, then review it and choose **Upload**.

## Camera and audio

A separate camera window is not automatically composited into another window or tab. Keep the preview visible on the shared screen if you want it in a full-screen recording, then check the saved video.

Audio from the shared surface depends on Chrome, your operating system, and the selected source. See [Microphone and audio](/screen-recorder/record-and-capture/screen-recording/microphone-and-audio.md) and [Webcam and camera preview](/screen-recorder/record-and-capture/screen-recording/webcam-and-camera-preview.md).

## Operating system permissions

Your operating system may ask you to allow screen recording for Chrome. On macOS, check **System Settings → Privacy & Security** for the screen-recording permission. Depending on your macOS version, this may be named **Screen Recording** or **Screen & System Audio Recording**.

Restart Chrome if your operating system asks you to after changing a permission. Then try the recording again.

## What gets captured

The video shows your selected surface. Attached technical diagnostics relate to the browser page, not other desktop applications. Close sensitive windows and notifications before recording.


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