BYOK
Real provider executionUse this when output quality and real model behavior matter.
Start Here
BYOK and Mock Mode
opheli.ai supports both BYOK execution and Mock Mode. The right choice depends on whether you need real provider output or just want to validate the workflow.
Guide summary
Use this page to understand the surface before you act inside it.
Know when to use your own provider credentials and when to stay in the safe no-cost preview path.
Guide type
Start HereThis guide reflects the current product workflow and surface ownership.
Sections
5Summary first, then steps, mistakes, and recovery notes.
Related guides
3Written against the current product structure and core execution workflow.
Mock Mode
Workflow validationUse this when you want no external API cost and a safe product walkthrough.
Related action
Provider VaultProvider Vault is where the mode decision becomes durable execution posture.
Guide section
What BYOK means
Bring Your Own Key means you connect your own provider credentials. Runs then use that provider and its billing relationship for model usage.
When to use it
Use BYOK when you need real model-backed output, provider-specific models, or production-like behavior.
Common mistake
Assuming the platform covers provider usage costs.
Related action
Open Provider Vault to connect or rotate your credential.
Guide section
What Mock Mode means
Mock Mode is the safe local validation lane. It helps you understand the workflow, explore product posture, and preview execution without real provider cost.
When to use it
Use Mock Mode during onboarding, screenshots, demos, or when you are not ready to connect a provider.
What happens next
The product flow stays real, but provider output is simulated rather than billed externally.
Guide section
How to choose
I only want to learn the product. Which mode should I use?
Start in Mock Mode.
I need a real customer-facing deliverable. Which mode should I use?
Use BYOK with the right provider and model posture.
Guide section
Cost and safety posture
BYOK bills model usage through your provider. Mock Mode avoids external provider usage, but it also cannot validate real provider credentials, model access, or live output behavior.
Any cost shown in opheli.ai is an estimate unless explicitly marked Verified by Provider.
Warning
Mock Mode is not production validation
Use it to validate workflow and product posture, not to sign off a real provider configuration.
Guide section
Where this fits in the workflow
What it is
A setup and provider-usage decision.
Where to find it
Provider Vault and first-run setup.
What happens next
The chosen provider posture becomes available to operators and runs.
Common mistake
Forgetting to revisit Provider Vault before your first production-quality run.
Related action
Move to Provider Vault, then return to Launch Mission.