We witnessed one of the biggest AI breakthroughs when DeepSeek was launched, and it quickly climbed to the first spot on the App Store. This rapid rise signaled just how much interest and anticipation surrounded the new Chinese AI model. Expectations were at an all-time high, with many wondering if it could truly compete with the best AI models on the market. However, the only way to know if it lives up to the hype is to try it yourself. If you're unsure how to install it on your preferred device or how to get started, this article will walk you through everything you need to know to use DeepSeek on virtually any platform.
What is DeepSeek?
DeepSeek, a Chinese AI firm based in Hangzhou, has made significant waves in the artificial intelligence industry with its innovative and cost-effective approach to developing large language models (LLMs). Founded in May 2023 by Liang Wenfeng, also a co-founder of the quantitative hedge fund High-Flyer, DeepSeek operates as an independent AI research lab under High-Flyer's umbrella.
The release of DeepSeek-R1 led to a significant shift in the AI landscape. Within days, the DeepSeek AI assistant app surpassed OpenAI's ChatGPT in the Apple App Store rankings. This rapid ascent prompted a stock market reaction, with notable declines in shares of major U.S. tech companies as investors reassessed AI valuations.
DeepSeek has released several versions of its AI models, each designed for different tasks. Here's a simple breakdown of the main versions:
DeepSeek-V3 (December 2024): This is a powerful AI language model with 671 billion parameters, meaning it has been trained on a huge amount of data. It uses a "mixture-of-experts" system, which makes it efficient and smart in responding to different types of queries. It can handle 128,000 tokens of text at a time, meaning it can process long documents easily.
DeepSeek-R1 (January 2025): This version is focused on reasoning and advanced thinking. It was designed to perform complex problem-solving tasks but was developed at a much lower cost than similar AI models from competitors.
DeepSeek Coder (November 2023): This AI model is specifically trained for coding and programming tasks. It helps developers write and debug code efficiently.
DeepSeek Janus Pro (January 2025): This model specializes in image-related tasks, such as recognizing and generating images.
Affordable Pricing Compared to ChatGPT
One of DeepSeek's biggest advantages is its lower cost compared to OpenAI's ChatGPT models. While OpenAI's premium models (like GPT-4) can be quite expensive for businesses and individual users, DeepSeek provides competitive performance at a fraction of the price. This makes it a strong alternative for those who want a powerful AI without high subscription fees.
Region Restrictions & Regulatory Scrutiny
Despite its affordability, DeepSeek AI faces strict regulatory scrutiny across the world due to concerns about data security and user privacy. Several countries and government agencies have imposed restrictions or outright bans:
Banned in: Italy, Taiwan, South Korea, Australia
Restricted by: US Congress, US Navy, and other agencies
Caution in: India's Finance Ministry advises against using AI tools for government data
How to Download DeepSeek on Windows
Running DeepSeek on Windows is a reliable option, especially with growing concerns about privacy. For users who still want to try this LLM model, running it offline with tools like Ollama is a practical solution. If you’re looking to explore it, here’s how you can safely install and run DeepSeek on Windows:
Step 1: To get started, open your web browser, visit the Ollama website, and click "Download for Windows" to begin the download.
Step 2: Once the download is complete, locate the installer file and double-click it to launch the setup.
Step 3: A setup window will appear. Click "Install" and let the process begin.
Step 4: The installation might take a few moments. Once it's done, Ollama will automatically start running in the background.
Now that Ollama is set up, it's time to open PowerShell and run DeepSeek on your system.
Step 5: Click the search bar on your taskbar, type "PowerShell", and select "Windows PowerShell" from the results.
Step 6: Go back to the Ollama website and navigate to the "Models" tab. From the list, find and choose "deepseek-r1".
Step 7: Click on "Parameters" and choose the model version that suits your computer’s capabilities.
Tip: If you pick a model that’s too demanding for your system, DeepSeek might run slowly.
Step 8: Once you’ve selected the appropriate model settings, click the “Copy” icon to grab the command needed to install DeepSeek.
Step 9: Switch back to PowerShell, press “CTRL + V” to paste the command, and hit “Enter” to start downloading DeepSeek.
Step 10: Once the installation is finished, you’ll see a confirmation message. DeepSeek is now ready to use!
Step 11: To check if everything is working, disconnect from the internet and type a message in PowerShell. DeepSeek should respond right away.
How to Download DeepSeek on macOS
If you're a macOS user looking to run DeepSeek offline without needing technical expertise, the setup process is straightforward. Here’s how you can install and run DeepSeek on your Mac using Ollama:
Step 1: Start by downloading Ollama. Open your browser, go to the Ollama website, and click on the "Download for macOS" button to begin the download.
Step 2: The download may take some time. Once it’s complete, go to the “Downloads” folder in “Finder” to locate the zip file and double-click on the installation package to extract the Ollama installation file.
Step 3: Once you have extracted the file, double-click on the Ollama Application file to run the Ollama installation.
Note: You will be asked to move it to your "Applications" folder in order to run the Ollama application.
Step 4: Ollama will now open on macOS. Click on "Next" on the Ollama welcome window to proceed.
Step 5: To run your first model, you will need to install the command line in Ollama. Click on "Install", where you will be prompted to enter your macOS username and password for administrative controls.
Step 6: To begin running your first LLM model on Ollama, simply click on the "Copy" icon to copy the Ollama run command.
Step 7: Next, click on the "Magnifying" icon at the top right to open "Spotlight Search" and search for "Terminal" to run the command.
Step 8: In Terminal, simply press "CMD+V" to paste the code and then hit the "Return" key to run the command, which will promptly begin the installation of the Ollama software on your macOS.
Step 9: Now click on the "Finish" icon on the Ollama window to exit the Ollama installation wizard and wait for the installation to complete in Terminal.
Note: Once the installation is complete, you can simply exit Terminal.
Step 10: Once the installation is complete, head back to the Ollama website and use the search bar to search for "DeepSeek R1" and click on the first search result.
Step 11: Next, click on the "Parameters" list and choose the DeepSeek R1 model you wish to run on your macOS.
Note: Higher models will use more resources but, in return, provide more accurate answers and a better experience.
Step 12: Once you have selected the DeepSeek R1 version, click on the "Copy" icon to copy the terminal command for the version you selected.
Step 13: Now, reopen Terminal on your macOS and press "CMD+V" to install the DeepSeek R1 version on your macOS.
Note: Make sure you have closed the previous Terminal window and are running the DeepSeek R1 command in a new Terminal window.
Step 14: Once you press the "Return" key, the DeepSeek R1 installation will start and will take some time.
Step 15: With the DeepSeek R1 installation completed, you can now begin interacting with the DeepSeek R1 model offline on your macOS. Type a message in your Terminal window to test.
Step 16: To exit DeepSeek, simply type "/bye" in Terminal to exit.
Note: You can always revisit the DeepSeek R1 model on macOS Terminal by pasting the DeepSeek R1 command we copied from Ollama's website.
How to Download DeepSeek on iOS/Android?
Setting up DeepSeek on your mobile device is even easier than on a computer. With just a few quick steps, you can have it up and running smoothly, ready to assist you on the go. Follow these steps to get started in no time.
Step 1: Locate and tap on the App Store icon on your home screen
Step 2: At the top of the screen, on the search bar type in “DeepSeek AI” and tap search.
You will now see a list of results. Look for the official DeepSeek app in the search results. It should have the correct branding and developer name.
Step 3: Tap the “Get” button and a prompt will appear asking for verification. Double-click the “Side” Button (on the right side of your iPhone) to confirm with Face ID or a passcode.
Step 4: Once installed, you’ll see the “Open” button appear in the App Store. Tap it to launch the app. You can also find it on the Home screen or in your App Library and tap on it.
What Should We Do After Downloading DeepSeek?
No matter where you're installing DeepSeek, you'll need to sign up before you can start using it. The signup process is really easy, and below, you'll find step-by-step instructions for both the web and app versions. Just follow along, and you'll be set up in no time!
Web-Version Sign up Process
Step 1: For web-users, open your preferred browser and go to the DeepSeek website.
Step 2: On the homepage, click the "Start Now" button to begin the registration process.
Step 3: You’ll be redirected to the DeepSeek login page in a new tab. Since we don’t have an account yet, click "Sign Up" to create one.
Step 4: Enter a valid email address and set a secure password for your new DeepSeek account.
Step 5: After providing the necessary details, click "Send Code" to receive a verification email.
Step 6: Open your email inbox, locate the verification email from DeepSeek, copy the confirmation code, and paste it into the "Code" field.
Step 7: Once all fields are filled in, check the Terms and Conditions box, then click "Sign Up" to finalize your account creation.
Step 8: That’s it! Your DeepSeek account is ready. Use it for academic research, professional tasks, or business projects based on your needs.
Mobile Sign up Process
If you're someone who mostly uses a mobile device, signing up for DeepSeek is super easy! The steps are the same whether you're on iOS or Android.
Step 1: With the DeepSeek app now installed, open it on your mobile (iOS/Android).
Step 2: You will be asked to enter your email credentials to log in. To create a new account, tap on the "Sign Up" button.
Step 3: You will be redirected to the DeepSeek sign-up page, where you need to enter an email account along with a strong password for your DeepSeek account.
Step 4: After entering your email credentials, tap on the "Send Code" button to receive a confirmation code via Gmail.
Step 5: Copy the code you received from DeepSeek and paste it into the "Code" field.
Step 6: Tick the "Terms and Conditions" checkbox, then tap on the "Sign Up" button to create your DeepSeek account.
Step 7: On the next screen, tap on the "Start Chat" button to open the DeepSeek mobile assistant chat window.
Step 8: You can now interact with DeepSeek AI on your mobile phone. Simply open the DeepSeek app anytime, and it will directly take you to the chat.
FAQs
1. Is it safe to use DeepSeek?
DeepSeek prioritizes the security of user information through commercially reasonable technical, administrative, and physical safeguards. These measures are regularly reviewed to incorporate new technologies. However, no online platform is entirely immune to vulnerabilities, and digital communications, including emails, may still be at risk. To use DeepSeek more securely, consider these precautions:
Limit Sharing of Personal Data: To minimize privacy risks, refrain from disclosing sensitive information such as your name, address, or confidential details.
Use a VPN for Added Security: A VPN can help safeguard your privacy by concealing your IP address and encrypting your internet traffic, reducing the risk of data exposure.
2. Does DeepSeek require an internet connection?
DeepSeek usually depends on an internet connection for its core functions, such as real-time data processing and API interactions. However, with a local setup using Ollama, some models can operate offline without requiring cloud access.
3. What is the difference between DeepSeek R1 and V3?
DeepSeek V3 is designed for adaptability, excelling in diverse language processing tasks with minimal customization. It’s ideal for applications requiring smooth contextual understanding. In contrast, DeepSeek R1 is optimized for deep reasoning, making it the superior choice for tackling logical and mathematical challenges. With a focus on scientific research and complex problem-solving, R1 is well-suited for users who need precision in analytical tasks.
Easy Installation of DeepSeek
You might have just found the download process you were looking for. I made sure to include everything, leaving no loopholes—so you can have the perfect DeepSeek AI experience, hassle-free. Whether you're setting it up on your desktop or mobile, following these steps ensures a smooth installation.
If you run into any issues, double-check the steps or explore the settings for additional customization. DeepSeek AI is packed with potential, so take full advantage of its capabilities and see how it enhances your workflow.
