Secure & Private

In the past, your documents were safe in your locked drawer. Today they are safe in DEVONthink. We are convinced that your data belongs only and exclusively in your hands. For us, privacy is not negotiable.

Your Mac, Your Data

DEVONthink does not store your documents on a server. Instead, it keeps them in databases on your Mac and in their original format, such as PDF. Such databases are treated by the Finder like single files and you can easily integrate them into your backup routine.

If you don’t want to import the files completely, you can also index external files and folders. This only adds references to your database so that the files remain in the Finder, but you can still organize and work with them in DEVONthink.

Export at Any Time

Export individual documents in their original format or convert them to common formats such as PDF, RTF, or plain text. When exporting, all the structures you have created are retained — DEVONthink stores your documents and groups as files and folders in the Finder true to the original. You always have full control over your valuable information, DEVONthink never holds your data hostage.

Encrypt Private Data Securely

For particularly sensitive data, DEVONthink offers secure databases with strong AES 256 bit encryption. These can only be opened with a key that you specify; there is no back door. Also, the synchronization between your devices can be encrypted. Your private data will remain private.

Security is always excessive until it’s not enough.

Robbie Sinclair

Store Your Data Audit-Proof

For certain documents, especially in finance, statutory retention obligations may apply including requirements for audit-proof document storage. For these environments, DEVONthink offers audit-proof databases. They prevent changes to the content of the imported documents and log deletions in a traceable manner.

A set of symbols that symbolize the concept of audit safety. A crossed-out pencil, a shield, a safe.

DEVONthink meets the highest standards, but is not certified, as there are countless certifications worldwide for audit-proof document storage.

AI on Your Terms

With DEVONthink, you decide if and how you want to use generative AI. Integrate models like ChatGPT, Claude or Mistral AI — or do without them, as you like.

Alternatively, DEVONthink supports locally installed AI models via engines such as Ollama or LM Studio. They run directly on your Mac and assist you without phoning home. You decide whether and to whom you want to entrust your data.

Sync Relaxed

Directly, via server, in the cloud: You've got the choice.
Directly, via server, in the cloud: You’ve got the choice.

DEVONthink gives you the freedom to choose how you want to synchronize your databases between your devices. You can transfer the data locally within your own network or use an external server as a hub.

  • Directly via the local network
  • Local file servers
  • Hard drives, USB sticks, SD cards
  • iCloud
  • Dropbox
  • WebDAV

To protect your data, the synchronization is optionally encrypted with AES 256 bit. Your data is protected in transit and stored in encrypted form on the server. The operator of the server never has access to your unencrypted data.