Do I need a GPU to run local AI on Windows?

PortableMind runs optimized local models on modern CPUs; a GPU helps with speed, but it is not required to start.

Will this work without internet?

Yes. The offline AI USB boots a local stack; prompts and responses stay on your Windows laptop even if Wi-Fi is off.

How long does startup take?

Expect 15–40 seconds for the local server and models to load before the browser UI is ready.

Can I use this on multiple PCs?

Yes. Keep the USB with you and plug it into any compatible Windows 10/11 machine, then run the launcher.

What if SmartScreen blocks the launcher?

Click More info → Run anyway. PortableMind runs locally and does not call external servers.

Can I update models later?

Optional update packs are available; if you skip them, the preloaded models keep working offline.

GUIDE · Run Local AI on Windows

Run local AI on Windows 10/11 without cloud lock-in

This guide shows how to run local AI on Windows using an offline AI USB so you get private answers even when the network drops. PortableMind ships preloaded: plug it in, launch once, and keep a Windows laptop ready for outages, travel, or locked-down networks.

Why run local AI on Windows?

Stay productive during ISP outages, dead hotel Wi-Fi, or air-gapped work.
Keep sensitive prompts and notes off third-party servers.
Predictable, one-time cost instead of per-token surprises.
Carry the exact same stack across your Windows 10/11 machines.

What you need

Windows 10/11 laptop or desktop with at least 8 GB RAM.
USB-A or USB-C port (adapter is fine) for the PortableMind drive.
Ability to click “Run anyway” on SmartScreen the first time.

Want a macOS version or more context on offline AI? See our AI without internet guide for cross-platform tips.

Start PortableMind on Windows 10/11

1Plug the PortableMind Windows USB into a direct port.
2Open File Explorer → PORTABLEMIND → double-click Start-PortableMind.bat.
3If SmartScreen appears, choose More info → Run anyway.
4Wait 15–40 seconds for the local AI server; a browser tab will open to localhost.
5Bookmark the tab and pin the launcher so you can start it fast during an outage.

For a macOS flow or mixed environments, the USB setup guide covers both platforms plus troubleshooting.

Performance tips on Windows

Keep the laptop plugged in for best CPU boost clocks.
Close heavy browser tabs; PortableMind runs locally and benefits from free RAM.
Disable VPNs that may interfere with localhost bindings.

Why use a preloaded USB instead of DIY

No dependency hell; the runtime and models are already wired together.
Consistent stack each time you plug in, even on a fresh PC.
Documented troubleshooting and a single launcher for Windows 10/11.

Bring a Windows AI assistant anywhere

PortableMind turns a Windows 10/11 machine into an offline AI assistant without cloud lock-in. Keep the USB in your bag and you can spin up local models on whatever laptop you have with you.

Order PortableMind View the setup steps

FAQ: running local AI on Windows

Do I need a GPU to run local AI on Windows?: PortableMind runs optimized local models on modern CPUs; a GPU helps with speed, but it is not required to start.
Will this work without internet?: Yes. The offline AI USB boots a local stack; prompts and responses stay on your Windows laptop even if Wi-Fi is off.
How long does startup take?: Expect 15–40 seconds for the local server and models to load before the browser UI is ready.
Can I use this on multiple PCs?: Yes. Keep the USB with you and plug it into any compatible Windows 10/11 machine, then run the launcher.
What if SmartScreen blocks the launcher?: Click More info → Run anyway. PortableMind runs locally and does not call external servers.
Can I update models later?: Optional update packs are available; if you skip them, the preloaded models keep working offline.