# What stays on your computer?

Local chat stays on your computer when you use a downloaded model without online tools.

Sources checked: 2026-10-17

## Local and online actions

These are different actions even when they happen in the same app.

| Action | Where it happens |
| --- | --- |
| Chat with a downloaded model, without online tools | Your computer runs the model. |
| Browse, search or download models | The app contacts the catalog or file host. |
| Use a cloud model, web search or a connected tool | That service receives the request. |
| Hugging Bay app fingerprint lookup | The app sends the file's SHA-256 when you ask. |
| Check for app or runtime updates | The app contacts its update service. |

## Check your setup

1. Download the app, runtime and model while online.
2. Load the model and send a harmless test message.
3. Disconnect the internet and send another message.
4. Reconnect when you need to search, download or update.

An offline reply demonstrates that this chat can run locally.

## Keep Ollama in local mode

In Ollama's `~/.ollama/server.json`, set `disable_ollama_cloud` to `true`, preserving any other settings, then restart Ollama. Its FAQ also documents `OLLAMA_NO_CLOUD=1`. Avoid cloud models, web search and connected tools for a local-only chat.

## Keep access limited

Leave local servers on their default loopback address. Keep exported chats and backups in a location you control. Use your app's delete controls when you want to remove a saved chat.

For site data, see [Hugging Bay's privacy page](/privacy).

## Sources

- [Hugging Bay desktop downloads](https://huggingbay.xyz/desktop)
- [Ollama settings and privacy](https://docs.ollama.com/faq)
- [LM Studio offline operation](https://lmstudio.ai/docs/app/offline)

[Next: fixes if something goes wrong](/learn/troubleshooting)