Before entrusting business processes to an artificial intelligence system, every entrepreneur should ask himself a crucial question: “Do I really know where my data ends up?”. Client lists, confidential projects, sales strategies: every piece of information is a key component of your company's value. Concern about losing control of it isn't just legitimate—it's necessary.
Many AI tools currently in use (like ChatGPT) function as a "cloud service": the data leaves your computer, travels across the internet, and is processed on servers owned by third-party companies. Often, however, the risks associated with this transfer aren't fully understood. There's a real risk that the information sent could be used to train other models or, in extreme cases, exposed to breaches.
Are there safe alternatives? The answer is yes. You don't have to choose between sacrificing the benefits of automation and risking your company's information assets. This guide clearly explains the two possible approaches—public AI and private AI—with their pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision.
Option 1: Public AI (with API) – Benefits and Hidden Risks
Public AI relies on the use of online services: using an access key (API), your system sends data to an external provider (e.g., OpenAI, Google) and receives the response back.
ADVANTAGES:
- ✅ Rapid implementation: In just a few minutes you can start using AI.
- ✅ Very low initial costs: you only pay for what you actually use.
- ✅ Always up-to-date technology: the supplier takes care of improvements and maintenance.
DISADVANTAGES:
- ❌ Privacy not guaranteedSensitive data travels outside your network and may be retained or reused by the provider.
- ❌ External dependence: You are subject to price changes, service interruptions, or changes to the terms of use.
- ❌ Compliance issues: Sending data outside the EU may violate the GDPR.
Who can it suit?
For those doing initial testing, working with non-sensitive data, or with limited budgets and immediate needs.
Option 2: Private AI – Ultimate Security and Control
Private AI runs on your own servers (local or dedicated cloud). The data never leaves the company's secure environment. It's like hiring an expert who works exclusively on your premises, accessing only what you authorize.
ADVANTAGES:
- ✅ Total privacy: Your data remains under your control at 100%.
- ✅ Regulatory compliance: ideal for GDPR and regulated sectors (banking, healthcare).
- ✅ Advanced customization: AI only learns from your documents and processes.
- ✅ Predictable costs: no surprises on the bill, guaranteed initial investment.
DISADVANTAGES:
- ❌ Higher initial cost: requires dedicated servers and configuration.
- ❌ Technical management: you need an internal figure or a reliable partner for maintenance.
Who can it suit?
For companies with sensitive data that want independence and long-term security.
Quick Comparison Table
| I wait | AI Publish with API | Local Private AI |
|---|---|---|
| Data Security | 👎 Data sent to third parties | 👍 Data always under control |
| Initial Costs | 👍 Bass (recording only) | 👎 High (server and setup) |
| Long Term Costs | 👎 Variables, grow with use | 👍 Fixed, predictable |
| Ease of Use | 👍 Very simple | 👎 Requires skills |
| Personalization | 👎 Limited | 👍 Complete |
| Privacy | 👎 Risk of data leakage | 👍 Maximum protection |
| Ideal for | Tests, small projects, non-sensitive data | Companies with sensitive data, GDPR compliance |
What to Choose? It Depends on Your Priority
- If you are aiming for the speed and you have non-critical data → Public AI can be a low-risk trial.
- If the safety It's a must → private AI is the only truly secure option.
In otomatik.it we also design and install private AI solutions Because we believe that automation and security should go hand in hand. For us, protecting your competitive advantage is not optional.
Not sure which is the best choice?
Contact us for a free, no-obligation assessment. We'll help you understand how to integrate AI without taking unnecessary risks.
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