Private vs Cloud
NELA is local-first. You choose the path from the desktop top bar.
Private
- Chat and library / File Indexer answers run on this device.
- Best after you have installed local models.
- Internet may still be used to download models or if you turn on web search.
Cloud
- Sign in from Profile / Cloud settings.
- Answers use NELA Cloud Fast, Smart, and Deep.
- Smart and Deep usually need a plan or credits; Fast may include a free rolling window (see Pricing).
- Prompts leave this device. Files attached to a Cloud chat leave this device for that turn (the app warns you).
Auto
Prefer Cloud when you are signed in and allowed to use it; otherwise use your local Smart model, with a clear notice.
When does data leave the device?
| Action | Leaves device? |
|---|---|
| Private chat / library / File Indexer | No (for inference) |
| Download a model | Download only |
| Web search on | Yes (fetch pages) |
| Cloud chat / Cloud attachments | Yes (to NELA Cloud) |
Next: Get started · File Indexer