GitHub Repo · Local & Private AI

Ollama

Run open AI models like Llama, Gemma and Qwen on your own computer.

What Ollama does

Ollama downloads and runs open-weight language models locally on Mac, Windows and Linux with a one-line command, and exposes a local API that other tools can use. Your data stays on your machine.

Best for

Private AI on sensitive documents
Avoiding per-user subscriptions
Powering other self-hosted tools

How small businesses use Ollama

Summarize client files offline
Run a private chatbot for staff
Back Open WebUI or AnythingLLM with a local model

Quick facts
Type	GitHub Repo
Category	Local & Private AI
Pricing	Free and open source
Repository	github.com/ollama/ollama
License	MIT
Setup level	Beginner
Main tradeoff	Model quality and speed depend on your computer's memory and graphics card.
GitHub stars	184k (as of 2026-10-21)
Added	Oct 16, 2026
Last reviewed	Oct 16, 2026

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Ollama: common questions

Who should use Ollama?

Ollama suits private AI on sensitive documents, avoiding per-user subscriptions and powering other self-hosted tools.

When should you choose something else instead of Ollama?

Model quality and speed depend on your computer's memory and graphics card. If that matters for your business, compare other options such as Jan, Open WebUI and AnythingLLM.

Is Ollama free?

Ollama pricing: Free and open source. Pricing changes often, so confirm current plans on the official repository or website before you buy.

Can a small business self-host Ollama?

Yes. Ollama is open source on GitHub, and its setup level is beginner. You will need a computer or server to run it and someone to keep it updated and backed up, or you can use a hosted option if one is offered.