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Octoparse tasks can run locally on your computer or in the cloud. Both modes use the task workflow you build, but they differ in where the task runs, how long it can continue, and how suitable it is for scheduled or unattended extraction. Use Local Extraction for testing and debugging. Use Cloud Extraction when you need tasks to run without keeping your computer on.

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Comparison

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When to use Local Extraction

Use Local Extraction when you want to:
  • Test a new task before running it at scale
  • Watch how the workflow behaves step by step
  • Debug element selection, pagination, login, or page loading issues
  • Use a local browsing session or local network condition
  • Run a small one-off extraction
  • Run an extraction without consuming Cloud Extraction resources
  • Keep collected data on a device you manage
Local Extraction is usually the best first step when building or editing a task. Learn more about its control, data-handling, and recovery advantages in Local Extraction.

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When to use Cloud Extraction

Use Cloud Extraction when you want to:
  • Run tasks without keeping your computer on
  • Schedule recurring collections
  • Collect larger datasets
  • Run tasks unattended
  • Reduce dependence on your local device
  • Keep your local IP address private during extraction
  • Send data to downstream exports automatically
Cloud Extraction is better for production workflows after the task has been tested.

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Typical workflow

1

Build the task locally

Create the workflow, select fields, configure actions, and refine data.
2

Run a local test

Check that the task extracts the right records and handles pagination or detail pages correctly.
3

Switch to Cloud Extraction

Use Cloud Extraction when the task is stable and needs to run on a schedule or at larger scale.
4

Monitor cloud results

Check run status, logs, and exported data after the task runs.

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Things to check before cloud runs

Before moving a task to the cloud, confirm:
  • The task does not rely on a local-only session
  • Login and cookies are configured correctly if required
  • Pagination and scrolling work in a sample run
  • The website can load correctly in the cloud environment
  • Export settings are configured
  • The task supports the run mode you want to use
A task that works locally may still need adjustment before running reliably in the cloud, especially if the target website uses login sessions, location-sensitive content, anti-bot checks, or dynamic loading.

Local Extraction

Understand the control, privacy, and recovery considerations of running on your device.

Standard vs boost mode

Compare Standard and Boost cloud run modes for speed and concurrency.

Logs & event tracking

Learn how to check task status and troubleshoot failed runs.