Face swapping technology enables both creative experimentation and practical workflows across design, media, and AI research. Recent licensing changes, however, mean that the InSwapper_128 model can no longer be hosted or automatically downloaded through RunDiffusion.
This guide explains why the change was made, how to manually install and manage face swapping models, and how to use them across popular RunDiffusion-supported applications such as Automatic1111, FaceFusion, and ComfyUI.
Understanding the Change
Due to licensing and commercial usage restrictions, RunDiffusion is unable to host or facilitate the automatic download of the InSwapper_128 model.
If you plan to use this model for commercial purposes, you must contact InsightFace directly to obtain the appropriate permissions or licensing. To remain compliant, users are now required to upload and manage face swapping models manually within their own RunDiffusion storage.
This approach ensures:
- Compliance with intellectual property and licensing requirements
- Continued access to face swapping workflows
- Full control over which models you use and how they are applied
Manual Installation of Face Swapping Models
To continue using face swapping tools on RunDiffusion, follow the steps below.
1. Download the Required Model
Download InSwapper_128 or another compatible face swapping model from its official source. Always review and comply with the model’s licensing terms, especially for commercial use.
2. Upload the Model to RunDiffusion
Upload the downloaded model file to your RunDiffusion storage.
You can follow the official guide on uploading files in RunDiffusion for step-by-step instructions:
RunDiffusion Team
3. Organize the Model in the Correct Folder
Different applications expect face swapping models in specific directories. Place the model in the appropriate location below:
- Automatic1111 (ReActor or Roop extensions)
models/roop/ - FaceFusion app
models/facefusion/ - ComfyUI
models/insightface/
Correct placement is required for the application to detect and use the model.
Exploring Alternative Face Swapping Models
While InSwapper_128 is widely used, it is not the only option.
- The FaceFusion standalone app includes multiple alternative face swapping models you can experiment with.
- There are ongoing open-source projects developing new face swapping approaches with different quality and performance characteristics.
Testing alternatives can help you find a model better suited to your workflow or licensing needs.
Using Face Swapping Models in RunDiffusion
Once you have uploaded the models to the appropriate folders, you can seamlessly use them in your RunDiffusion sessions. Here’s a quick guide on how to utilize these models across different applications:
Reactor and Roop
To set up face swapping in Auto1111, boot up a server, install the Reactor extension from the Extensions tab, and ensure the Inswapper model is in the correct directory. Then, go to the Server Manager and click "Restart".
Facefusion
Place your models in the models/facefusion folder. Boot Facefusion and you should see the option in the Facefusion interface to select and apply the models to your images.
ComfyUI
Upload the models to the models/insightface folder. ComfyUI will detect the available models, allowing you to choose and apply them during your editing sessions. Load a workflow or node that utilizes Faceswap and see that the model is there.
Conclusion
Although automatic downloads are no longer available, face swapping remains fully supported on RunDiffusion through manual model management. With proper setup, you can continue using face swapping across Automatic1111, FaceFusion, and ComfyUI without interruption.
Always verify licensing terms for commercial projects, and contact InsightFace directly when required. Managing your own models ensures flexibility, compliance, and long-term workflow stability.
Further Reading
Explore a variety of Faceswapping articles.
RunDiffusion Team
RunDiffusion Team
RunDiffusion Team
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can’t RunDiffusion automatically install InSwapper_128 anymore?
Due to licensing and commercial use restrictions, RunDiffusion cannot host or distribute the model. Manual installation ensures legal compliance.
Can I still use face swapping for commercial projects?
Yes, but you must obtain the appropriate commercial license directly from InsightFace for the model you are using.
Will my model persist between sessions?
Yes. Once uploaded to your RunDiffusion storage and placed in the correct directory, the model will be available in future sessions unless deleted.
What happens if the model is in the wrong folder?
The application will not detect it. Always confirm the folder path matches the app you are using.
Are there alternatives to InSwapper_128?
Yes. FaceFusion includes multiple alternative face swapping models, and open-source projects continue to release new options.
