# Connect your AI provider (BYOK)

> Connect your provider account with an API key and use it for AI in Inkwell.

About 3 minutes in Plot

## Follow along in Plot

Each step matches visible UI in the editor.

1. [Open Inkwell settings](https://www.inkwell.software/resources/guides/byok-setup#step-1)

   From the app, open Settings → AI & keys and find the Bring your own key section.

   _AI settings live next to account and billing_

2. [Choose your provider](https://www.inkwell.software/resources/guides/byok-setup#step-2)

   Select Anthropic or OpenAI, then use the API key from that provider account.

   _Your key, your usage dashboard_

3. [Paste and save the API key](https://www.inkwell.software/resources/guides/byok-setup#step-3)

   Paste the key and save your AI settings. Inkwell validates the key so you can start using your provider.

   _Encrypted at rest before any skill can run_

4. [Run a skill to confirm](https://www.inkwell.software/resources/guides/byok-setup#step-4)

   Open Plot, run Dialogue Pass, and review its inline suggestions. Check the usage in your provider account.

   _Reviewable edits — accept or reject each line_

5. [Switch providers or rotate your key](https://www.inkwell.software/resources/guides/byok-setup#step-5)

   Select Inkwell (hosted) to return to hosted AI. For a provider with a saved key, leave its key field blank to keep that key, or paste a new key to rotate it. Remove a saved key when you no longer need it.

   _Manage your provider and saved keys in AI settings_

## Related reading

- [AI skills pillar](https://www.inkwell.software/learn/ai-skills-for-writers): how skills use your key
- [Security & data](https://www.inkwell.software/security): what Inkwell sends to AI
- [Dialogue Pass](https://www.inkwell.software/resources/guides/dialogue-pass): try a skill after setup

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Canonical page: <https://www.inkwell.software/resources/guides/byok-setup>