Claude Desktop file access control
Claude Desktop talks to your files through MCP (Model Context Protocol). Out of the box, it sees everything you point it at. Kobel sits between Claude and your file system and enforces folder-level permissions you set with five colors.
Why Claude needs scoped file access
When you connect Claude Desktop to a filesystem MCP server, every file in that root path is reachable. That is fine for a toy project, risky for real work. If Claude decides to "clean up" a folder while you are away from the keyboard, there is nothing stopping it.
Kobel replaces the raw filesystem connection with a permission-aware gateway. Claude still speaks MCP, but every request goes through a ruleset you control.
How the 5-color system works with Claude
- 🟢 Green — full access. Claude may read, write, and delete. Use for scratch folders and generated output.
- 🔵 Teal — read + write with automatic backup of every changed file.
- 🟡 Yellow — read and append only. No overwriting, no deletion.
- 🟠 Orange — read only. Claude can analyze but never touch.
- 🔴 Red — blocked. Claude cannot even see the folder exists.
Typical Claude Desktop setup with Kobel
After installing Kobel, add your project roots as folders, color them, and connect Claude Desktop in one click. Kobel auto-detects the Claude config and registers itself as the MCP server. The next time you open Claude, it only sees what you allowed.
Audit log
Every file action Claude takes is logged: timestamp, folder, operation, result. If something goes wrong you can see exactly which call did it.
Windows and Claude Desktop
Kobel is a native Windows app. It runs locally, never uploads file contents to any server, and works fully offline once configured.
Download KobelFrequently asked questions
Does Kobel work with the regular Claude Desktop app?
Yes. Kobel registers itself as an MCP server in the Claude Desktop config. No extra plugin or browser extension.
Can I still use Claude for code when folders are Red?
Yes. Red folders are invisible to Claude, but every other folder works normally. You can keep code green and contracts red side by side.
Does Kobel see my file contents?
No. Permission evaluation happens locally on your machine. Kobel never sends file contents to any server.
What happens if Claude tries to delete something in a red folder?
The request is refused at the gateway level. Claude gets a "not available" response and the file is untouched. The attempt is logged.
Is Kobel free?
There is a free Basis tier. Pro is €49 one-time or €3.90/month for more folders and features.