Ollama documents a local-only switch, OLLAMA_NO_CLOUD=1, and an equivalent server setting. Restart after changing it. Treat this as one boundary in your setup: browser tools, extensions and other applications can have separate connections and policies.
What Ollama's local-only setting changes
Ollama's current FAQ describes disabling cloud models and web search with OLLAMA_NO_CLOUD=1 or disable_ollama_cloud in its server configuration. Restart the application or service after the change; its documentation identifies an Ollama cloud disabled log entry as confirmation. This is a current documentation explainer, not a newly announced release or a FyreLinkz network audit.
Map the whole route before entering private text
Our suggested review starts with the interface you type into, then the server it calls, the selected model and any optional search or document connectors. Draw those as four separate boxes. A local model selection does not explain where a browser extension sends diagnostics or where a third-party chat interface stores conversation history. Record each application's actual settings rather than inferring them from the model name.
A small privacy inventory you can copy
Use a harmless made-up question for the first run. Record the settings and review logs without publishing prompts, credentials or personal documents. This table is an editorial checklist, not proof that a particular installation is offline.
| Layer | Question to record | Evidence to keep |
|---|---|---|
| Chat interface | Which server receives the prompt? | Configured endpoint |
| Model runtime | Are cloud features disabled? | Setting and restart log |
| Optional tools | Can search or connectors transmit text? | Tool configuration |
| History and backups | Where are conversations retained? | Retention and sync settings |
Local-only does not mean your whole computer is disconnected
We recommend separating three goals: keeping inference on your machine, preventing a particular tool from using a cloud feature, and enforcing complete network isolation. They are different tests. For sensitive work, involve whoever manages the device and its data rules. Do not change firewall or security settings merely to make a model run. No claim about your device's traffic can be made from a documentation setting alone.
Keep a repeatable first-run record
Start with a non-sensitive prompt you can reuse after updates. Record the runtime version, model identifier, interface and enabled tools. Repeat that check when you change an extension or switch a model. Keep download activity separate from the inference session in your notes; obtaining model files and generating an answer are distinct actions.
- List each application in the prompt path.
- Record the local-only setting and restart confirmation.
- Disable optional connected tools you do not need in that interface.
- Use a harmless sample before handling real material.
- Review the record after an update or configuration change.
Next: size the machine and inspect model files
See our small local model guide for workload selection and the model download checklist before installing unfamiliar files. Those guides answer different questions from network privacy. This article does not certify a deployment or establish compliance with an employer's rules.
Frequently asked questions
How do I disable Ollama cloud features?
Ollama documents OLLAMA_NO_CLOUD=1 or disable_ollama_cloud in server configuration. Restart and check the documented confirmation log.
Does local-only mode audit other applications?
No. Review the chat interface, tools, extensions and storage separately.
Is this a new Ollama launch?
No. This is an explanation of documented controls checked on October 17, 2026.
Sources & further reading
Primary sources checked Oct 17, 2026. Vendor statements are attributed; editorial advice is our own.
- 1
Help us keep this useful. Check contact availability →
