FAQ

What is Folding@Home?

Won't this slow my computer down?

Why should I fold?

Okay, I'm convinced. How do I start?

I'm having trouble or I want more information.

What is Folding@Home?
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Folding@Home uses the spare processing power on your computer to simulate protein folding. Before proteins carry out their function, they have to assemble - or fold - themselves. Unfortunately, the folding process can and often does go wrong, leading to serious diseases, including Alzheimer's, Mad Cow, Parkinson's, and others. By simulating the folding process, scientists can use the results to find out more about these diseases, and eventually find a cure.

Won't this slow my computer down?
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Nope. That's because F@H runs silently in the background on your computer, using spare processor cycles that other programs are not using. This lets all the other programs on your computer use all the processing power they need, while taking otherwise wasted processing cycles and diverting them to a fight against disease.

Why should I fold?
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There's a good chance that you or someone you love will encounter a disease related to protein folding at some point in life. Instead of feeling helpless in the fight against that disease, you can join devoted scientists that are helping to cure it!

Okay, I'm convinced. How do I start?
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Check out our downloads page to get your hands on the Folding@Home client. Once you've downloaded it, begin the installation. It will guide you through a number of steps to get started. Remember to enter 35054 when it asks you for a team number!

I'm having trouble or I want more information.
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If you're having issues with F@H, contact us or visit the Leoville Town Square, where a bunch of friendly folks will be glad to answer all of your questions. If you'd like very detailed information, take a look at the official Folding@Home FAQ.