> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://oximy.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Choosing a model

> Pick the right model for a thread, or let Sidekick choose for you.

Every turn in a thread has to run on some model. This page covers picking one from the composer, what happens when you switch mid-thread, and connecting a provider of your own.

## Pick a model in the composer

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open the model picker">
    In the composer, open the model picker to see your options.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose Auto Route or a specific model">
    **Auto Route** is the default. Sidekick picks a model for each turn from the approved catalog, so a long thread can use different models along the way without you managing it. Pick a specific model instead and every turn uses that one until you change it.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set the effort level, if you want more control">
    Alongside the model, the picker lets you set an effort level. Higher effort trades speed for a more thorough pass on the turn.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Switching mid-thread is safe

Changing the model, or letting Auto Route change it, doesn't touch the thread itself. Its history, files, and outputs all stay exactly where they are. Only which model handles the next turn changes.

## Connect your own provider

When your workspace allows it, you can connect a personal model provider and use it inside Sidekick instead of the workspace's own models.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Go to Settings → Model Providers">
    Open your settings and find the model providers page.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose a provider">
    Pick the provider you want to connect from the approved list.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose a connection method">
    Providers can support more than one way to connect. Pick the one that fits how you want to authenticate.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter your credentials">
    Provide the credentials the chosen method asks for. Once connected, the provider is available from the model picker.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Note>
  Connecting a personal provider is only available when your workspace admin allows it. If you don't see this option under Settings, it isn't enabled for you.
</Note>

## Where to go next

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="How models are chosen" icon="cpu" href="/docs/sidekick/concepts/how-models-are-chosen">
    How Auto Route and the approved catalog decide which model handles each turn.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Govern models" icon="shield-check" href="/docs/sidekick/admin/govern-models">
    How admins build the approved catalog and set defaults by scope.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>