---
title: "Can I run AI without an internet connection?"
description: "Yes. Once the model and software are downloaded, local AI runs fully offline. You need internet access only to download new models or updates."
url: https://exolabs.net/faq/can-i-run-ai-offline/
updated: 2026-10-26
---

# Can I run AI without an internet connection?

Yes. Once the model and software are downloaded, local AI runs fully offline. You need internet access only to download new models or updates.

This makes local AI a fit for air-gapped networks, field work, ships and aircraft, and sites with poor connectivity.

Check the tools around the model. A local model is offline, but an app or agent that calls web search or other cloud services will still need the network for those features.

**Where exo fits:** exo has an offline mode (EXO_OFFLINE=true) that uses only models already on disk. Machines in a cluster still talk to each other over your local network or Thunderbolt cables.

Sources:
- [exo on GitHub (README)](https://github.com/exo-explore/exo)

Page: https://exolabs.net/faq/can-i-run-ai-offline/ · Updated 2026-10-26 · Deployments: https://exolabs.net/#business (sales@exolabs.net)