> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.askui.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Runtime Modes

> Standalone vs OS Service — choose the right AgentOS runtime mode.

AgentOS can run in two modes. Choose based on your use case.

## Standalone

AgentOS runs as a regular process in the current user's session.

**Best for:** Local development, interactive desktop use, and manual testing.

```bash theme={null}
pip install askui-agent-os
```

That's it — your agent code uses AgentOS automatically.

## OS Service

AgentOS runs as a Windows system service with SYSTEM privileges.

**Best for:** Enterprise deployments, CI/CD pipelines, headless VMs, and scenarios where RDP sessions may disconnect.

The OS service requires the [Windows installer](/06-agent-os/installation/service). Once installed, the AskUI SDK automatically uses the service instead of standalone mode.

## Feature Comparison

| Feature                       | Standalone                       | OS Service                      |
| ----------------------------- | -------------------------------- | ------------------------------- |
| **Primary use**               | Local dev / desktop              | Enterprise / CI/CD              |
| **CI/CD ready (Windows)**     | No (requires OS service)         | Yes (unattended/headless)       |
| **CI/CD ready (macOS/Linux)** | Yes                              | —                               |
| **RDP resilience**            | No (session locks on disconnect) | Yes (session transfer)          |
| **Logon screen control**      | No                               | Yes                             |
| **Send CTRL+ALT+DEL**         | No                               | Yes (Secure Attention Sequence) |
| **Privileges**                | Current user                     | SYSTEM                          |
| **Install method**            | `pip install`                    | Windows installer               |

<Tip>
  **Not sure which to pick?** Start with **standalone** for development. Move to the **OS service** when you need CI/CD, headless VMs, or RDP resilience.
</Tip>