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

# Data and providers

> How request data, temporary files, research collection, and providers are handled.

## Inference and operational records

Aster sends the content needed to answer a request to the selected model provider. The service keeps the operational, security, usage, and financial records required to authorize, meter, settle, investigate, and support the request.

## Research preference

New accounts can turn off Allow data collection in Settings. Opting out blocks future Aster research copies; it does not remove the records required to operate the account or prevent providers from processing content needed for inference.

## Attachments

Playground attachments use a private temporary store and a configurable two-day lifecycle candidate. Approved research copies use a separate private store only when the account preference permits. Clearing a playground conversation deletes its temporary originals through the application cleanup path.

## Documents

Read the Privacy Notice, Data Collection Policy, and Provider/Subprocessor List before sending confidential or regulated material. Those customer documents are versioned and remain the controlling description if this guide and a policy differ.

## Next steps

* [Get started](/quickstart)
* [Contact support](/support-status)