Open-Source Model
1 min read · Reviewed 17 Oct 2026
In short
A model whose weights anyone can download and run.
In plain English
A model released so you can run it on your own machines, rather than only through someone's API. Terms vary — some restrict commercial use.
A real example
A firm that cannot send client data to a third party runs an open model on its own server. Slower and more work, but nothing leaves the building.
Why it matters
The main reason a small business would care is data control. Otherwise the hosted models are cheaper, better and require no infrastructure.
