A safe installation records the hardware, exact model file, engine, settings, and test result so the setup can be checked and repeated.
Record the computer first
- Operating system and version.
- CPU model and core class.
- Total RAM.
- Exact GPU name, type, and dedicated VRAM when present.
- Free storage.
- The number of people who will use the model.
Confirm the model and engine
Choose a model for the task, then confirm that the engine supports its architecture and file format. A model may appear in several formats, and the setup steps are not always the same.
Download the engine from its official website. Use an exact model tag or trusted file. Save the names and versions so the test can be repeated.
Protect the first test
- Use non-sensitive information.
- Keep the service on the local computer or private network.
- Do not expose an unauthenticated model port to the internet.
- Close heavy apps if memory is limited.
- Start with a short context and one user.
- Keep a way to stop the service.
Measure the result
Run five to twenty prompts from the real job. Check whether the first word arrives soon enough, whether the full answer is fast enough, and whether memory stays stable.
Score correctness, instruction following, made-up facts, and unsafe answers. A setup is not complete just because the model opens.
Save a working baseline
- Record the exact model and quantization.
- Record the engine and driver versions.
- Save important prompts and settings.
- Write down the pass mark and results.
- Back up configuration files that do not contain secrets.
- Test again after every important change.
Official references used
These primary sources support the technical concepts in this guide. Product behavior changes, so verify the current documentation before deployment.
Find a model your computer can run.
The LocalLens advisor applies conservative memory rules and tells you when the evidence is insufficient.
Run the free compatibility check →This guide is educational and reviewed for practical accuracy. Model software, licenses and hardware support change; verify official sources before a production deployment.