> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://doc.duaer.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://doc.duaer.com/deploy/host-n8n/configure-n8n/set-up-ai-assistant.md).

# Set up instance AI on self-hosted Duaer

Self-hosted Duaer configures the assistant in the instance AI wizard in Settings. Sandbox and web search are optional. Prepare environment variables before startup.
## Wizard and environment variables

1. Open instance AI in Settings.
2. Enable it with the wizard, or preset the model environment variables first.
3. Restart Duaer and confirm the assistant appears and responds.

Cloud assistant notes live under [manage-cloud](/manage-cloud/ai-assistant.md). Do not mix that page with this one.

## Configure a sandbox provider <a href="#configure-a-sandbox-provider" id="configure-a-sandbox-provider"></a>

The sandbox lets the assistant run steps that need a trial execution in isolation. When the wizard configures a sandbox provider, its note links here. Choose Daytona or the sandbox type the UI lists.

Without a sandbox, actions that need one are unavailable or show a warning. That does not mean all of instance AI is broken.

## Enable web search <a href="#enable-web-search" id="enable-web-search"></a>

When the assistant should search the public web, turn on web search in the wizard. The note links here. After it is on, the assistant can make search tool calls. When it is off, it does not.
## Questions

### How do you turn on instance AI on self-hosted Duaer?

Follow the wizard on the instance AI page in Settings, or set the model environment variables and restart. Sandbox and web search are optional. UI notes link to those sections.

### What is the sandbox for Duaer instance AI?

It lets the assistant try code or commands in an isolated environment instead of on the host. Without a sandbox, steps that need one are unavailable or show a warning.