Freeplane
Freeplane 1.13.3 is an open-source mind-mapping and knowledge-management tool for nodes, attributes, links, bookmarks, formulas and project structures, with scripts, add-ons and optional AI providers.
Structured maps and project planning
Freeplane is suited to mind maps, project breakdowns, knowledge trees, meeting structures and long-lived diagrams with attributes. It emphasizes structured nodes, formulas, bookmarks and automation more than a lightweight whiteboard. A map received from another person should be treated as an executable document when it contains scripts or add-ons.
Runtime and stable release
Version 1.13.3 is the stable release, with Windows, macOS and Linux packages. Some packages include Java, while ordinary Windows, Linux DEB and ZIP distributions may require a compatible Java 11–21 runtime. Keep a copy of the map and user configuration when moving between packages or operating systems.
Scripts, add-ons and AI boundaries
Groovy scripts and add-ons can extend file, network and external-process operations. Optional local or cloud AI providers introduce additional data paths and credentials. Start with a redacted test map, retain default restrictions and review each provider's input scope before enabling automation. The project is distributed under GPL-2.0.
Review date: 2026-08-06.
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Freeplane 1.13.3 installation, mind-map and script-permission guide
Install the stable package for the operating system, create a test map with nodes and attributes, then review formulas, add-ons and AI-provider data paths before migrating an important project.
Before you start
- On Windows, check whether the selected package includes Java; on macOS use version 14 or later and match Intel or Apple Silicon; on Linux prepare Java 11–21.
- Back up existing .mm files, templates, user configuration, scripts and add-on directories so the new build cannot overwrite the only copy.
- For AI, scripts or third-party add-ons, create a redacted test map and record the provider, credentials and data scope before enabling them.
Installation steps
- 01
Choose the 1.13.3 stable package
Select the Windows installer or portable package, the matching macOS image or a Linux DEB or ZIP, and keep the 1.13.4 pre-release line out of the stable workspace.
- 02
Verify the Java runtime
Packages with bundled Java can start directly; other packages should be checked with java -version and a deliberately selected runtime rather than an uncontrolled system fallback.
- 03
Import a copy and confirm save paths
Open a duplicate map, test nodes, links, fonts, formulas and exports, then confirm the user configuration and automatic-backup locations before moving the production map.
Quick start
- 01
Build structure and styles
Create a central topic with two levels of nodes, attributes and icons, then use styles for titles and task states instead of copying formatting manually.
- 02
Test bookmarks and filters
Bookmark key nodes, test search, filtering and the map root, save and reopen the file, and confirm that links and collapsed states remain correct.
- 03
Isolate scripts, add-ons and AI
Keep script restrictions enabled, install one trusted add-on at a time and choose an AI read, edit or disabled mode only after checking the provider, credentials and content sent.
Usage tips
- A map can contain links, formulas and script information. Handle files from others as executable documents rather than plain text.
- User directories store templates, scripts, add-ons and preferences; back them up separately and inspect paths, tokens and personal data before sharing.
- AI availability does not replace human review. Remove customer names, internal addresses and credentials before sending map content to a remote provider.
Troubleshooting and uninstall
Why does Freeplane report an incompatible Java version?
Check whether the package bundles a runtime, verify the Java architecture and version, and point the application to a compatible environment without removing Java required by other programs.
Why are formulas or scripts behaving differently after opening an old map?
Keep the original read-only, then inspect formula protection, script permissions, add-on versions and custom class paths in a copy. Do not open all file and network permissions just to bypass one error.
- Export maps, templates and configuration notesPreserve .mm files and static PDF or HTML exports, record add-ons, scripts, Java paths and AI-provider settings, and remove credentials before archiving.
- Remove the application and sensitive dataUninstall Freeplane and remove user directories, caches or an isolated Java runtime only after confirming that scripts, model keys and automatic backups have independent copies.
Frequently asked questions
Does Freeplane always require a separate Java installation?
It depends on the package. The macOS image and some Windows packages can include Java, while other Windows, Linux DEB and ZIP packages need a compatible runtime. Check the package notes and use the supported 11–21 range for the 1.13 line.
Why use 1.13.3 instead of the newer 1.13.4-pre03?
1.13.3 is the stable release dated 2026-07-14, while 1.13.4-pre03 is a pre-release. Use the stable build for shared templates and daily work, and test pre-release builds only with a copy.
Are Freeplane scripts and add-ons safe by default?
Groovy scripts and add-ons can read or write files, use the network or start programs. Keep restrictions enabled, run trusted code only and grant the smallest scope needed for a specific map.