Obsidian
Operator: Dynalist Inc., Canada
Local note and knowledge management with Markdown files, linked notes, a graph view and Canvas.
Case Management
OPSEC caution
Enabled community plugins can access files on the computer and make internet connections. Their permissions are not limited to individual vault files.
Product
Obsidian, locally installed note and knowledge management for desktop and mobile devices.
Availability and source date
Active
As of: 17 October 2026.
No functionality test has been performed.
Use in OSINT research
Organises research materials, source links and notes in a local knowledge collection. Links, the graph view and Canvas help structure connections and case notes.
Queries
| Input | Result | Result type |
|---|---|---|
| Keyword / free text | Matches in your own notes and knowledge collection. | Retrieved |
| Document / file | Linked notes, cross-references and visual relationships within your own collection. | Derived |
Features
- Stores notes as local Markdown files.
- Connects notes through links and backlinks.
- Visualises relationships between notes as a graph.
- Arranges text, files and web content on a canvas.
- Extends workflows through plugins and an official command-line interface.
Categories
- Case Management
Coverage
Dataset
Your own notes, files and research sources linked within them.
Access
Installation and deployment
Locally installable · Mobile app
A local desktop application and mobile app. Sync and Publish are optional cloud add-ons.
Requirements
Installation on a desktop or mobile device. Basic local functions require no account. Sync and Publish require an account and a paid add-on.
Export
Notes are stored as open Markdown files in your own file system; Canvas uses an open file format.
Provider
Dynalist Inc.
Country of establishment
Canada
Interfaces
API
Available. An official local plugin API for TypeScript extensions. Also an official CLI for programmatic access to the running client.
MCP
Not documented. Not described on the reviewed official product, developer or CLI pages.
AI agents
Available. The official CLI allows agent tools to read, search and write in the vault. The Obsidian app must be running.
Legal note
Limitations
- Synchronisation and publishing through the official cloud services are paid extras.
- The command-line interface requires the Obsidian application to be running.
Guides and practical reports
Official · Obsidian Help
Obsidian · EN
An introduction to vaults, notes, links and extensions.