Short answer
An Index is a full dataset for the AI to search. A Folder is a way to organize files inside an Index, but can also be searched on its own.
Full explanation
In AskTuring, an Index is a secure, topic-specific collection of documents that the platform searches when answering your questions. The AI uses the entire Index to find, connect, and retrieve relevant information.
A Folder is a way to group and organize files inside an Index. While Folders help you keep your files organized, they can also be searched directly. You can choose to query:
The entire Index
A specific Folder
A selection of files
Even just one file
This flexibility means Indexes define what the AI can access overall, while Folders give you control over narrowing the search to exactly what you want.