Pre-requisites for Desktop AutomationInstallation steps for algoScraper on your Desktop

Installation steps for algoScraper on your Desktop

Install the Desktop Scraper on your desktop to enable UI element scraping for desktop application testing.

Applies to Desktop Applications

This scraper can be used only for the WinAppDriver framework.

Installing algoScraper

Perform the following:

Download the latest algoScraper

Download the latest version of algoScraper from algoQA Downloads.

Extract the downloaded file, then open the Scraper folder.

File explorer showing extracted Desktop algoScraper V1.0.0 folder

Double-click the Desktop Scraper application.

A pop-up appears prompting you to choose the installation option.

Select either Anyone who uses this computer or Only for me, then click Next.

Desktop Scraper Setup dialog with Only for me (Dell) selected and Next button

A pop-up appears prompting you to choose the installation location.

Browse to the desired location, then click Install.

Desktop Scraper Setup wizard Choose Install Location screen with destination folder and Install button

The installation window appears and displays the installation progress.

Desktop Scraper Setup dialog showing Installing progress bar

A confirmation pop-up appears indicating that the Desktop Scraper has been installed successfully.

Click Finish to complete the setup.

Desktop Scraper Setup wizard Completing screen with Run Desktop Scraper checkbox and Finish button

After clicking Finish, the Desktop Scraper launches automatically, and you can start scraping.

If you encounter the error message: "Windows cannot access the specified path or file. You may not have appropriate permissions to access the item."


After installing algoScraper, follow the steps below:

  • Run as Administrator
    • Right-click the algoScraper shortcut.
    • Select Run as Administrator.
  • Verify File Permissions
    • Navigate to the installation folder: C:\Program Files (x86)\AlgoShack\algoScraper\
    • Right-click WebElementLocator.exe → Properties → Security tab.
    • Ensure your user account has Read & Execute permissions.
  • Check Windows Defender / Antivirus
    • Open Windows Security → Virus & threat protection → Protection history.
    • If the file is blocked, choose Allow.
  • Unblock the File (if applicable)
    • Right-click WebElementLocator.exe → Properties.
    • If you see an Unblock checkbox, select it and click Apply.
  • Reinstall as Administrator (if issue persists)
    • Uninstall AlgoScraper.
    • Reinstall by running the installer as Administrator.