PORTABLEMIND
GUIDE · Ollama USB Setup

Ollama USB setup to run offline models without cloud logins

This Ollama USB setup guide shows how to run models from a plug-and-run drive so you stay offline and avoid API keys. PortableMind ships preconfigured with local models, so you can skip Docker installs and get an offline AI assistant on any supported laptop.

Why run Ollama from a USB?

  • Keep models available during flights, outages, or low-signal locations.
  • Carry your tuned stack between machines with no reinstall each time.
  • Protect sensitive prompts by keeping inference on the device in front of you.

What you need

  • Windows 10/11 or macOS laptop with 8 GB RAM or more.
  • USB-A or USB-C port (adapter is fine) for the offline AI drive.
  • Permission to approve SmartScreen (Windows) or “Open Anyway” (macOS) the first time.

If you ever need the step-by-step for both OSes, the USB setup guide covers launchers and troubleshooting in detail.

Ollama USB setup in plain steps

  1. 1Plug in the PortableMind USB that matches your OS (Windows 10/11 or macOS).
  2. 2Open the PORTABLEMIND drive and run the launcher: Start-PortableMind.bat on Windows, Start-PortableMind.command on macOS.
  3. 3Approve SmartScreen or Open Anyway — the runtime is local and does not call the cloud.
  4. 4Wait 15–40 seconds for the local server to load models; a browser tab opens to localhost.
  5. 5Bookmark the tab and keep the USB with your go-bag so the offline assistant is always ready.

Looking for a Windows-focused runbook? Check Run local AI on Windows for OS-specific tips.

Hardening a USB AI stack

  • Keep a second backup drive cloned so you have redundancy for travel.
  • Test the launcher offline once so SmartScreen or Gatekeeper approvals are cached.
  • Disable VPNs or proxies that may block localhost during the first boot.

Why PortableMind instead of DIY installs?

  • Preloaded models and runtime—no Docker, Python, or package juggling.
  • One-click launchers for Windows and macOS with documented fixes.
  • Offline by design: no API keys, no telemetry, and no surprise updates.

Launch local models from a USB

With PortableMind, the Ollama-style experience lives on a portable drive. Plug in, run the launcher, and you have a private AI assistant without cloud dependencies or recurring fees.

Get the PortableMind USBView setup steps

FAQ: Ollama USB setup

Does this require internet?
No. The goal of an Ollama USB setup is to keep models and runtime local so you can run them offline.
Do I need Docker or Homebrew?
Not with PortableMind. The runtime and models are preloaded on the USB so you skip package installs.
Which operating systems are supported?
PortableMind ships separate launchers for Windows 10/11 and macOS. Pick the one that matches your laptop.
How long does first boot take?
Plan for 15–40 seconds while the local server and models load from the USB before the browser UI is ready.
Can I move the USB between machines?
Yes. Plug it into another supported machine and run the matching launcher; your prompts stay on the local device.
Is this the same as installing Ollama yourself?
It delivers the same outcome—local models with no cloud—but without the manual installs, API keys, or rebuilds.
How do I update models later?
You can apply optional update packs. If you skip them, the offline AI USB keeps working with the preloaded set.