How long does SneakTime installation take?

SneakTime installation takes about 5 minutes. You need to install the Chrome extension (1-2 minutes) and set up the desktop backend (3-5 minutes). The desktop backend setup involves running a few commands in your terminal.

Which operating systems are supported?

Currently macOS and Linux are fully supported for the desktop backend. Windows support is coming soon. The Chrome extension works on any Chrome or Chromium-based browser, regardless of operating system.

Do I need to keep the desktop backend running?

Yes, the desktop backend must be running for screenshot detection to work. It runs as a daemon (background service) and automatically detects screenshot events. You can configure it to start automatically when your computer boots.

Will SneakTime work if Upwork Time Tracker is not running?

No, SneakTime requires Upwork Time Tracker to be running and actively tracking time on an hourly contract. Screenshots only occur during tracked time, so SneakTime can only detect screenshots when the tracker is active.

Is SneakTime free to install and use?

Yes, SneakTime is completely free. There are no trials, subscriptions, or hidden costs. Both the Chrome extension and desktop backend are free and open-source.

What happens if I only install the Chrome extension?

The Chrome extension alone cannot detect screenshots. It only displays notifications. You must also install and run the desktop backend for screenshot detection to work. The backend reads Upwork's local log files to detect screenshot events.

Can I install SneakTime on multiple computers?

Yes, you can install SneakTime on multiple computers. Each computer needs both the Chrome extension and desktop backend installed. The extension and backend work together locally on each machine.

How to Install SneakTime

SneakTime installation takes about 5 minutes and requires two components: the Chrome extension (browser notifications) and the desktop backend (screenshot detection). Both are free and open-source.

The Chrome extension provides browser notifications when Upwork Time Tracker takes screenshots. The desktop backend (daemon) detects screenshot events by reading Upwork's local log files. Together, they provide instant alerts and segment timing awareness.

Installation Steps

Install Chrome Extension

Install the SneakTime Chrome extension from the Chrome Web Store. This provides browser notifications when Upwork Time Tracker takes screenshots.

Install Chrome Extension

Download Desktop Backend

Download the SneakTime desktop backend (daemon) from GitHub. This detects screenshot events by reading Upwork's local log files. The backend is required for screenshot detection to work.

View on GitHub

Follow Setup Instructions

Follow the setup instructions in the GitHub repository to configure the desktop backend. Setup typically takes 3-5 minutes and involves running a few commands in your terminal.

macOS/Linux: The backend runs as a daemon and automatically detects screenshot events. Make sure Upwork Time Tracker is running and tracking time for screenshots to be detected.

Start Using SneakTime

Once both components are installed and configured, SneakTime will automatically send notifications when Upwork Time Tracker takes screenshots and when new 10-minute segments start.

You'll receive browser notifications for screenshot events and segment start alerts at :00, :10, :20, :30, :40, :50. SneakTime also shows you how much time remains in the current segment after a screenshot.

System Requirements

• Chrome browser (or Chromium-based browser) for the extension
• macOS or Linux for the desktop backend (Windows support coming soon)
• Upwork Time Tracker installed and running (required for screenshot detection)
• Active hourly contract with time tracking enabled (screenshots only occur during tracked time)

How SneakTime Helps After Installation

Once installed, SneakTime provides two types of notifications for Upwork Time Tracker screenshots: post-screenshot notifications (alerts you right after a screenshot happens) and segment start alerts (notifies you when each new 10-minute segment begins at :00, :10, :20, :30, :40, :50).

SneakTime does not block screenshots or manipulate activity—it only provides awareness of screenshot timing. This helps you understand when screenshots occur and how much time remains in the current 10-minute segment, reducing awkward screenshots and fewer deleted 10-minute segments.

The desktop backend detects screenshot events by reading Upwork's local log files, and the Chrome extension displays browser notifications. Together, they provide instant alerts without interfering with Upwork's tracking system.

Ready to Install?

Get started with SneakTime in just 5 minutes. Both components are free and open-source.

Install Chrome Extension Get Desktop Companion (GitHub)

SneakTime is an independent tool created by freelancers. Not affiliated with Upwork Inc.

How to Install SneakTime

Installation Steps

Install Chrome Extension

Download Desktop Backend

Follow Setup Instructions

Start Using SneakTime

System Requirements

How SneakTime Helps After Installation

Ready to Install?

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