Get running in five minutes.
Portico is designed to require zero configuration. You don't need to be a developer to run AI locally. Here is the short version of how to go from installer to chatting with a private model on your own hardware.
If you just want the software, grab the installer. If you want to know exactly how it works under the hood, read on.
From download to first prompt.
Download & Install
Grab the Windows installer. You might see a "Windows protected your PC" prompt — click "More info" then "Run anyway" since we aren't code-signed yet. No admin rights required for installation.
Pick a Model
Open the app and go to the Models tab. Portico will analyze your RAM and suggest the best architectural tier (Doric, Ionic, etc). Download one to get started. It acts like the record to your record player.
Start Chatting
Open a new chat session. Everything happens locally on your CPU/GPU. Check the status bar to confirm "Network: Offline" — it's working perfectly. Your data never leaves your machine.
Common questions.
Why is Windows SmartScreen blocking the install?
Portico is open-source and currently distributed without an expensive Microsoft code-signing certificate. The warning is standard for unsigned apps. As long as you downloaded it from our official site, it is completely safe to proceed past the warning.
Do I need an internet connection to use it?
You only need the internet to download the Portico app itself, and to download the AI models. Once a model is downloaded, Portico requires zero internet connection to function. Web search is the only feature that touches the network, and it is strictly disabled by default.
Will it slow down my computer?
Portico reads your machine's available RAM and chip, and only loads models that fit comfortably. When you close the app or stop chatting, it frees up your hardware immediately. It will not run in the background draining your battery.
Where is my chat history stored?
Everything is stored locally in a folder on your own hard drive. Nothing is synced to the cloud. If you uninstall Portico, the history and models remain in your documents folder unless you choose to delete them.
Try it on your own machine.
Free and open source. Works with the open models you already trust.
On a Mac or Linux? Build it in three commands →