[BUG] RPC error -1: ensure user: useradd failed: exit status 12 (cannot create directory /sessions/...)

Preflight Checklist

• [x] I have searched existing issues and this hasn't been reported yet
• [x] This is a single bug report (please file separate reports for different bugs)
• [x] I am using the latest version of Claude Code

What's Wrong?

What's happening that shouldn't be:
Claude Code Desktop can't create the session directory it needs to start a coding session
The useradd command is failing when trying to create /sessions/serene-relaxed-goldberg
This completely blocks session initialization - you can't start any coding sessions
The error persists even after fresh installs and clearing local app data
It's been ongoing for 2+ weeks, making the desktop app unusable

What Should Happen?

Session directories should be created successfully
Coding sessions should start without RPC errors
The app should work normally after fresh installation

Error Messages/Logs

RPC error -1: ensure user: useradd failed: exit status 12: useradd: cannot create directory /sessions/serene-relaxed-goldberg
RPC error -1: ensure user: useradd failed: exit status 12: useradd: cannot create directory /sessions/zealous-pensive-meitner


There are dozens. you get the picture I think. <3

Steps to Reproduce

Install Claude Code Desktop (native install).
Start the app and attempt to begin a cowork session.
Observe the RPC error and the “cannot create directory /sessions/…” message.
Repeat after a fresh install and clearing local app data (issue still occurs).

Claude Model

Not sure / Multiple models

Is this a regression?

Yes, this worked in a previous version

Last Working Version

_No response_

Claude Code Version

2.1.113 (Claude Code)

Platform

Anthropic API

Operating System

Windows

Terminal/Shell

Other

Additional Information

_No response_