Connect a Model Provider (BYOK)
Bring your own API key to connect a provider directly; credentials stay on your machine and never relay through a server.
Updated 2026-09-19
WorkGoa uses BYOK (Bring Your Own Key): model requests go straight from your machine to the provider you configure. The server doesn't relay model calls, and there's no metered wallet.
Why it's designed this way
- Privacy: manuscripts and conversations never pass through a third-party relay, and credentials stay in your hands.
- Transparent cost: model usage is billed between you and your provider; WorkGoa charges only for the software service.
- Freedom to switch: combined with the multi-engine Runtime, you pick the right model per task.
First-time setup
On upgrade or first use, enter an API Key once in Settings; from then on all requests go directly from your machine to the provider you chose.
Switching providers
After switching a model provider, sessions and context are handled correctly, so you don't reopen the conversation. If you occasionally see "messages sent but not shown" after a switch, update to the latest version — such issues were fixed in recent releases.
Relation to quota purchases
BYOK answers "where the model comes from and who pays", independent of quota purchases: every software feature is open to all users, and model costs either sit between you and your provider (BYOK) or are metered against hosted quota (the hosted channel).