Documentation.
Everything you need to know.
Install, configure, and use Basic Memory with complete guides and technical references. All open and versioned.
Getting Started ↗
Install Basic Memory and set up your first knowledge base in minutes.
Integrations ↗
Connect Basic Memory to Claude, ChatGPT, VS Code, Obsidian, and more.
CLI Reference ↗
Complete command-line interface documentation and usage examples.
Technical Specs ↗
Architecture details, API reference, and advanced configuration.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Basic Memory
How do I install Basic Memory?
Add Basic Memory as a remote Connector in your AI. See https://docs.basicmemory.com/guides/cloud/ for details.
Which AI platforms work with Basic Memory?
Basic Memory works with any MCP-compatible AI assistant. The local version integrates via local MCP. Basic Memory Cloud uses Remote MCP to work with ChatGPT, Claude (desktop, mobile, web), Gemini, Codex, and other platforms, so you can access your knowledge from anywhere.
Is my data private and secure?
Yes. The free local version stores everything on your machine using standard markdown files. With Basic Memory Cloud, your data is encrypted on our servers in your own private instance, and we don't share data between users. You maintain full control and can export everything anytime.
What's the difference between local and cloud versions?
The local version runs entirely on your machine and integrates via local MCP. Basic Memory Cloud gives you your own private cloud instance accessible from any device: desktop, mobile, or web. With cloud, you can use ChatGPT, Gemini, and other AI platforms via Remote MCP. Both use the same markdown format and knowledge graph structure.
How is Basic Memory different from other memory MCPs?
Unlike other memory tools that store data in opaque vector stores or proprietary formats, Basic Memory keeps your knowledge in plain markdown files that you can read, edit, and organize however you want. It creates a true semantic knowledge graph with explicit relations and observations, giving you transparent control over your AI's memory.
Can I export my data if I want to stop using Basic Memory?
Yes! Basic Memory stores everything in standard markdown files and local databases on your machine. You can copy your markdown files to any other tool, continue using them in Obsidian, or import them into different systems. No vendor lock-in, ever.
What are observations and how do they work?
Observations are the core building blocks of Basic Memory. They're categorized insights that capture what AI learns from your conversations and notes. Each observation includes a category (like "decision", "pattern", or "preference"), descriptive tags, and the insight itself. This creates a rich semantic layer that helps AI understand context and connections between different topics.
How does Basic Memory handle version control and collaboration?
Since Basic Memory uses standard markdown files, it works seamlessly with Git for version control. You can track changes, create branches, and collaborate with team members just like code. The index database can be rebuilt from markdown files, making it easy to sync and merge changes across different environments.
Can I customize how Basic Memory organizes my knowledge?
Yes! Basic Memory is highly customizable. You can define your own directory structures, create custom observation categories and tags, and set up project-specific templates. The open architecture means you can adapt it to your workflow rather than changing your workflow to fit the tool.