Docs

Practical guides for a local-first desktop AI workspace — with optional NELA Cloud. Start with install, then unlock the File Indexer and your document library.

Install & open a workspace

Download NELA, create a project, and send your first message.

Index your folders

Turn disk folders into a smart File Indexer the assistant can search.

Private or Cloud

Choose on-device models or optional NELA Cloud when you need it.

Essentials

Welcome

What NELA is: local-first desktop AI with optional Cloud.

Get started

Install, first workspace, and a simple checklist.

Private vs Cloud

When work stays on this device — and when it uses the internet.

Your files & creation

Flagship

File Indexer

State-of-the-art folder search: keywords + meaning, structured for better answers.

Document library

Add PDFs and docs, then ask questions with sources cited.

Create files

Presentations, spreadsheets, HTML, and Word from chat.

Modes

Chat, Vision, Audio, Podcast, and Mindmap — when to use each.

Setup & help

Models & quality

Fast / Smart / Deep on device or in Cloud.

Features overview

Map of everything NELA can do, with links into each guide.

Fix problems

Indexing, downloads, and common “why isn’t this working?” tips.

How it fits together

A light picture of Private, Cloud, and your files — no deep dive required.