Do you need a VPS to run an AI agent?

TL;DR: Only if your agent must run 24/7 and isn't already a cloud app. If it's a website-based agent, or you only run it while you're working, you don't need a VPS.

When you DON'T need a VPS

• The agent is a cloud app (it already runs on the vendor's servers).
• You only use it while your computer is on — running it locally is fine.
• You're just experimenting. Start simple; add infrastructure later.

When a VPS makes sense

• The agent must run on a schedule or react to events around the clock.
• It's a self-hosted / open-source agent that needs an always-on home.
• You don't want it tied to your laptop being awake.

What a VPS costs

A small VPS runs about $5–20/month (DigitalOcean, Hetzner, etc.). You'll also handle setup and updates — it's more technical than a cloud app.

Easier alternatives

• Pick a cloud agent that's already always-on (no server to manage). Filter for cloud agents.
• Use a managed hosted option so someone else runs it 24/7 for you.

Still unsure? The selector asks where you want it to run and recommends accordingly. See also Cloud vs local vs VPS.