> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.b2ihealthcare.com/snow-owl-authoring-platform/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.b2ihealthcare.com/snow-owl-authoring-platform/7.19.1/introduction/getting-started/login/repositories.md).

# Repositories

### Embedded and remote repositories <a href="#gettingstarted-embeddedandremoterepositories" id="gettingstarted-embeddedandremoterepositories"></a>

Depending on what type of repository you choose at startup, Snow Owl can operate in either standalone or collaborative mode.

{% hint style="info" %}
By default, it starts up as a standalone application and uses an embedded repository.&#x20;
{% endhint %}

You can review and change this setting by clicking on the **`Repository`** button on the login screen.

![Repository Selector](https://3959073837-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FRoMPum3fElXxzso90QiD%2Fuploads%2FDLYZaYql4P7FEE0sGjjp%2Frepository.png?alt=media\&token=9f2b033b-e6ee-45f0-9a98-897b28b2a042)

| Repository              | Description                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 |
| ----------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Embedded repository** | Select this option if you want to use Snow Owl as a standalone application, without collaborating with others. You can use all editing functionalities, but your changes will only be stored on your computer. This is the default setting. |
| **Remote repository**   | Select this option if you want to be able to submit your changes to and receive other users' changes from a central terminology repository. Enter the network address of the remote repository in the text field to the right.              |