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

# Quick Start Guide

> Get started with LLMGrid in minutes using the OpenAI‑compatible proxy and core governance features. 

## Step 1: Create an account

Navigate to  [https://app.llmgrid.ai](https://www.llmgrid.ai)

**Sign up with Google**

1. Select **Continue with Google**.
2. Complete the sign-in prompts.
3. You will be redirected to your workspace.

**Sign up with GitHub**

1. Select **Continue with GitHub**.
2. Authorize access when prompted.
3. You will be redirected to your workspace.

**Sign up with email address**

Select **Sign up** if you want to signup with your email.

## On-boarding

New registration will take you to on-boarding wizard.

***

## Step 2: Add Model

Use this quick start to add your first model so users and applications can begin making requests.

1. **Navigate to Models**

In the sidebar, go to **AI & Models → Models**.

1. **Add New Model**

Select **Add Model** and choose the appropriate provider.

1. **Configure Model Details**

Enter the provider model name, assign credentials, and define the public model name exposed to users.

1. **Assign Access Controls**

Optionally associate the model with teams, access groups, or budgets to control who can use it.

1. **Test & Save**

Use **Test Connect** to verify connectivity, then save the model. The model becomes immediately available for routing and API calls

***

## Step 3: Create a Virtual Key

Virtual Keys are used to authenticate requests and apply governance controls.

1. Open the **Virtual Keys** section in the LLMGrid UI.
2. Select **Create New Key**.
3. Provide a name and (optionally) assign:
   * Models
   * Budgets
   * Rate limits
4. Save the key and copy it securely.

> This key will be used as your API token when calling LLMGrid.

***

## Step 4: Point Your Application to LLMGrid

Replace the OpenAI base URL with your LLMGrid proxy endpoint in your existing SDK configuration.

### Python Example

```python theme={null}
from openai import OpenAI

client = OpenAI(
    api_key="YOUR_LLMGRID_API_KEY",
    base_url="https://api.llmgrid.ai/v1"
)

response = client.chat.completions.create(
    model="gpt-4.1",
    messages=[
        {"role": "user", "content": "Hello from LLMGrid"}
    ]
)

print(response.choices[0].message.content)
```