Introduction to OpenAI-DotNet
OpenAI-DotNet is a simple and efficient client library designed for C# developers who wish to interface with OpenAI's RESTful API. This independently developed library is not affiliated with OpenAI but serves as an alternative for those looking to integrate AI functionalities within .NET applications. Users must have an OpenAI API account to access its services.
Basic Requirements
The OpenAI-DotNet library is designed to work with .NET 8.0 and above, making it versatile enough to function across various applications including console apps, winforms, WPF, and ASP.NET. It is also compatible with operating systems like Windows, Linux, and Mac, ensuring a broad range of usability.
Installation Guide
To get started with OpenAI-DotNet, users can install it from NuGet using the following commands:
For PowerShell:
Install-Package OpenAI-DotNet
For Dotnet CLI:
dotnet add package OpenAI-DotNet
For users interested in utilizing OpenAI-DotNet within the Unity Game Engine, a specific package is available on OpenUPM.
Comprehensive Documentation
The project boasts a detailed documentation site that offers users clear guidance on how to authenticate, interact with models, and more.
Key Features
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Authentication: There are three recommended ways to handle API keys—directly through the constructor, loading from a configuration file, or using system environment variables. The use of environment variables is suggested to avoid hardcoding sensitive information.
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Model Management: Users can list, retrieve, and manage models. This includes handling finely tuned models with options to delete them when necessary.
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Assistants: The library facilitates the creation, retrieval, and modification of AI assistants, allowing applications to build models and utilize tools for various tasks.
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Proxy Usage: OpenAI-DotNet offers a proxy setup to enhance security by handling requests through an intermediate API, thus safeguarding API keys.
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Azure Integration: Users can configure the library to work with Microsoft Azure for those who prefer to deploy OpenAI models using Microsoft's infrastructure.
Handling Resource Management
OpenAIClient implements the IDisposable interface, ensuring efficient management of resources like HttpClient. It automatically handles disposal if it creates an HttpClient internally. However, if an external HttpClient is provided, the user is responsible for its disposal.
Azure OpenAI and Active Directory Integration
For those using Microsoft's Azure OpenAI, the library provides guidance on setting up authentication through Azure Active Directory. This includes using the MSAL library to obtain access tokens fr secure API interactions.
Use Cases And Examples
Front-End and Back-End Integration
OpenAI-DotNet can be effectively implemented in both front-end and back-end environments:
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Front-End: The library can be used to create custom authentication and connect securely to an API backend, which interacts with OpenAI’s proxy to handle sensitive requests.
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Back-End: It enables setting up a proxy server to forward API requests securely, ensuring that sensitive information such as API keys are protected from direct exposure.
OpenAI-DotNet stands as a robust tool for developers looking to harness the power of OpenAI within C# applications, providing extensive features and security mechanisms for seamless integration with existing systems.