Smokeball can be used in two ways: through the cloud (web browser) and through the desktop application installed on your computer. While the web version is convenient for checking case information and managing communication on the go, the full power of Smokeball — especially document automation, time tracking, and workflow tools — is available only in the desktop application.
This guide explains how to download, install, and update the Smokeball desktop software, what to do if you’re setting it up for the first time, and how to handle common installation and syncing issues. The content is written for attorneys, legal assistants, and IT coordinators supporting small and midsize firms.
Note: Smokeiball.com is an independent resource and is not affiliated with Smokeball, Inc. Always download software from the official source.
Where to Download Smokeball
To ensure security and data integrity, Smokeball should only be downloaded directly from the official support site:
Official Download Page: https://www.smokeball.com/download
Avoid downloading installers from shared drives, old email attachments, or third-party websites — especially in law firms where client confidentiality is critical.
System Requirements (Windows Only)
Smokeball desktop runs on Windows. It is not designed for macOS without virtualization.
This is intentional: Smokeball integrates deeply with Microsoft Word and Outlook, which are the standard legal drafting tools in U.S. firms.
Minimum Recommended Setup:
- Windows 10 or Windows 11
- Microsoft Office 2016 or later
- Reliable broadband internet connection
- At least 8 GB RAM (16 GB for firms handling large PDF and document workloads)
If your firm uses Macs:
Most firms either:
- Install Smokeball on a Windows virtual machine, or
- Use Smokeball Cloud/Web for lighter work and document review
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
1. Confirm User Account Access
Before installing Smokeball, your firm administrator must have already:
- Created your user account
- Assigned your role and matter permissions
If you are unsure, ask your internal administrator first.
2. Download the Installer
- Visit the official download page.
- Click Download Smokeball for Windows.
- Save the installer to your desktop or Downloads folder.
3. Run the Installer
- Double-click the installer.
- Approve system permissions if prompted.
- Allow the installation to complete — this typically takes 1–5 minutes.
If your firm uses managed endpoints, your IT administrator may handle this step.
4. Sign In
Open Smokeball and enter:
- Your firm email
- Your Smokeball password
- Your 2FA code if enabled
At this point, the desktop application will begin syncing your matters and document library.
What Syncing Means (and Why the First Sync Takes Time)
During the first sign-in, Smokeball pulls:
- Client and matter metadata
- Shared templates
- Recent files
- Shared case notes
In a busy practice, this may take anywhere from 3 minutes to 1 hour, depending on:
- Internet speed
- Size of document library
- Whether you are restoring historical matters
A common real-world scenario:
A personal injury firm with 700+ active cases recently migrated to Smokeball. Their initial sync took nearly an hour — but afterward, daily syncs were quick and invisible.
This is normal and expected.
Updating Smokeball
Smokeball updates frequently — often improving stability or adding small workflow enhancements.
If you are prompted to update:
- Save your current documents
- Close Word or Outlook if open
- Approve the update
Updates usually take less than 60 seconds.
Firms that delay updates often experience preventable sync errors — so updating right away is generally the best practice.
Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues
| Issue | Possible Reason | Practical Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Cannot install software | Windows permissions or antivirus block | Install as Administrator, or have IT whitelist installer |
| Desktop app won’t sync | Firewall or VPN interference | Enable Smokeball domains in network settings |
| Word/Outlook integration not working | Missing Office updates | Update Microsoft Office and restart computer |
| App runs slowly | Low RAM or outdated PC | Increase memory, or use Smokeball Cloud for light work |
Smokeball Support can assist, but internal IT often resolves the quickest when the cause is local.
Security Considerations for Law Firms
Because Smokeball stores confidential case data, installation should follow secure handling standards:
- Do not install on personal or shared home computers.
- Always use password-protected profiles.
- Enable automatic system updates.
- If working remotely, connect through your firm’s VPN.
For firms with IT administrators, Smokeball can also be deployed via:
- Group Policy
- Microsoft Endpoint Manager
- Remote installation packages
Take Stock
Downloading and installing Smokeball is straightforward, but the setup process benefits from understanding how the desktop version integrates with Microsoft Office and your firm’s workflow. By installing from the official source, confirming account access, allowing initial sync to complete, and keeping the software updated, you ensure a stable foundation for daily legal work.
Smokeball is most effective when installed on a reliable workstation, connected to your firm’s network, and maintained with secure login practices.
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