Model providers
Configure LLM providers, failover, and custom OpenAI-compatible endpoints.
tip
Basic env vars also appear in Configuration. This page is the deep dive.
Built-in providers
Carina ships adapters for common providers (availability depends on your install version):
| Provider | Typical env vars |
|---|---|
| Anthropic | ANTHROPIC_API_KEY |
| OpenAI | OPENAI_API_KEY |
| DeepSeek | DEEPSEEK_API_KEY |
| OpenRouter | OPENROUTER_API_KEY |
| Groq | GROQ_API_KEY |
Set default:
DEFAULT_PROVIDER=anthropic
DEFAULT_MODEL=claude-sonnet-4-20250514
CLI: carina model list, carina model set anthropic.
Carina Cloud BYOK
In app.carinaai.uk, add keys under Settings > API keys. Keys are encrypted per workspace. The cloud app routes chat to your chosen provider without storing plaintext in the browser.
Custom OpenAI-compatible endpoint
CUSTOM_OPENAI_BASE_URL=https://llm.example.com/v1
CUSTOM_OPENAI_API_KEY=...
CUSTOM_OPENAI_MODEL=my-model
Or register a provider plugin.
Failover and pools
Credential pools rotate keys on rate limit (brain/credential-pools.ts). Configure multiple keys for the same provider in advanced setups.
Model selection per session
Users can switch with /provider in CLI or web chat. Profiles can pin defaults per workspace.
Verification
carina model status
carina doctor