# FAQ

Quick answers to common questions. For step-by-step help with a specific problem, see
[Troubleshooting](/help/troubleshooting/).

#### Is my data uploaded anywhere?

No. Your files stay where they are, either on your Mac or in your own cloud bucket.
Curator reads them in place. All AI runs locally through **Ollama**, so your documents
and your questions never leave your control. The only network call Curator makes for AI
is to your own Ollama, whether that is on this Mac or another machine on your network.

#### Do I need an internet connection?

You need one to download the app and to pull AI models the first time. After that, day-to-day use does not need the internet. If you use Ollama on another machine, Curator needs to reach it over your network.

#### Does it cost anything to use the AI?

No. There is no per-use cost and no API key to buy. Models run locally through Ollama and are free to download.

#### What is Ollama, and do I have to install it myself?

**Ollama** is a free, open-source app that runs AI models directly on your Mac. Curator
depends on it for every AI feature. You do not have to install it by hand. Curator can
install it for you in one click during setup.

[Understanding Ollama and models](/concepts/ollama-and-models/)

#### Which models should I use?

The ones Curator recommends. During setup, Curator detects your Mac's RAM and suggests models sized to fit, each with a short description.

[Models and assignments](/reference/models/)

#### Does Curator move or change my files?

No. Curator reads your files in place. It never moves, copies, renames, or alters them unless you explicitly ask it to.

#### Can I use more than one folder or bucket?

Yes. You can add several **Storage Sources**, mixing local folders and cloud buckets.
The **All Sources** view searches and chats across every source at once.

[Storage sources](/concepts/storage-sources/)

#### Is there an account or subscription?

No. There is no account, no email, and no password. Profiles are local and name-only,
stored on your Mac.

[Profiles](/concepts/profiles/)

#### Is Curator available on Windows or Linux?

Curator is macOS only, and it needs macOS 12 (Monterey) or later.

> [!NOTE]
> PLACEHOLDER: Confirm whether Windows or Linux versions are planned, and state it here
> if so.

#### How do updates work?

Curator has a built-in auto-updater. When a new version is available, a prompt appears in
the app. You can also check for updates yourself from **Settings**.

[Updates](/reference/updates/)

#### How do I completely remove a source or my data?

You can delete a **Storage Source** along with the data Curator stored for it from
**Settings**. For what Curator stores and how to remove it fully, see the privacy reference.

[Manage your sources](/using/manage-sources/)
[Privacy and your data](/reference/privacy/)