Self-hosted ≠ only Docker on a VPS

Many guides stop at a remote GPU box you still SSH into. A self-hosted AI desktop means the machine you work on daily can think privately — models, agents, and files in one sovereign environment.

Building blocks

Model runtime, catalog of weights, agent tooling, storage, backups, and clear security boundaries. DIY stacks exist; product packaging collapses weeks of glue.

Cost model

CapEx on hardware + power vs OpEx on seats and tokens. For heavy daily use, ownership often wins. For occasional light use, cloud may still be cheaper.

S◉LOCK packaging

Founding Preview targets an AI-native private desktop path with model plugins and Helmsman for deep open libraries — early seats, honest hardware, EU-born design.

Next step: Explore the Helmsman model catalog, check hardware floors, or request Founding Preview access.

FAQ

Can I self-host on a Mac or Windows PC today?
Many local runtimes support them. S◉LOCK’s Founding path is Linux/desktop oriented as an AI-native system product.
Is self-hosted AI secure by default?
You still patch the OS, control accounts, and review agent permissions. Local removes cloud multi-tenancy; it does not remove basic security hygiene.

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