Local AI: How to find out which models are running on your hardware

Local AI models are becoming increasingly popular as they take advantage of data processing directly on the device. But how can you find out which models run on your own hardware? The answer depends on the software used and the system settings. In many cases, it is necessary to check the configuration files of the AI models or the protocols of the application. Some AI platforms also offer an overview of the models used directly in the dashboard. For example, users at Perplexity or other providers can view the models used and their settings via the user interface. It is also possible to check the system information of the device to detect whether AI models are running as background processes. In some cases, CPU or GPU usage, as well as memory usage, can also provide clues as to whether AI models are active. Another approach is to use monitoring tools that monitor resource use in real time, providing an overview of the ongoing AI models. However, it is important that users always check the documentation of the software used to understand the exact function and models used. Local AI models offer the advantage that the data is not transmitted over the Internet, which is particularly important in sensitive applications. They also enable greater security and control over data processing. The use of local AI models is therefore an important step in digitalization, which increases both efficiency and security. In practice, this means that users should regularly review their systems and transparently manage the models used. This not only helps optimize performance, but also helps with compliance with security standards and privacy regulations.