---
sidebar_position: 5
title: "🔌 Getting Started with Functions"
---

## Overview

Did you know Open WebUI can connect to almost **anything**—not just OpenAI-compatible APIs?

Thanks to **Pipe Functions**, you can bring in services that don’t support the OpenAI API (like **Anthropic**, Home Assistant, Google Search, or *any* Python codebase). No restrictions on LLMs or AI models: if you can automate it in Python, you can turn it into a plugin for Open WebUI!

This guide walks you through setting up your first Pipe Function, using the [Anthropic Pipe](https://openwebui.com/f/justinrahb/anthropic) plugin as an example.

## What are Pipe Functions?

Pipe Functions are “bring-your-own-model (or tool)” plugins:

- **Act like models**: They show up as selectable models in your Open WebUI sidebar.
- **Flexible**: Integrate with *any* backend, API, or workflow—no OpenAI compatibility required.
- **No LLM required**: You can build plugins for search, home automation, weather, databases, or whatever you like.
- **Pure Python**: All logic is Python code that runs *directly inside* your WebUI (so be cautious with what you enable!).

## Step 1: Find a Pipe Function to Try

Let’s integrate **Anthropic** with Open WebUI—even though Anthropic only supports its own native API (not OpenAI-compatible endpoints)!

1. Go to the [Anthropic Chat function page](https://openwebui.com/f/justinrahb/anthropic).

2. Click **Get**.

![Anthropic Pipe Function Page](/images/getting-started/pipe-anthropic-function.png)

## Step 2: Import the Function to Open WebUI

A modal will appear:

1. Enter your Open WebUI URL (e.g., `http://localhost:3000`) in the prompt.
2. Click **Import to Open WebUI**.

![Import Modal Screenshot](/images/getting-started/pipe-import-modal.png)

You’ll be redirected **directly to the Functions Editor** within your running instance of Open WebUI.

## Step 3: Review & Save

- You’ll see all of the Pipe Function’s Python code and configuration.
- **Important:** Functions run arbitrary Python! Review the code for safety, and only install from sources you trust.
- If you’re happy with the code, click **Save** to add it to your instance.

![Function Editor Screenshot](/images/getting-started/pipe-function-editor.png)

## Step 4: Enable the Function

Your new Pipe Function is now available, but **must be enabled**:

1. Switch the toggler to enable the function.

![Enable Function Screenshot](/images/getting-started/pipe-enable.png)

## Step 5: Enter any Required API Keys via Valves

Some functions need credentials (like Anthropic’s API key):

1. Click on the Gear icon next to the switch to open the **Valves** configuration.
2. Input your required API key(s) for the Pipe Function.

   ![Valves/API Key Screenshot](/images/getting-started/pipe-valves.png)

## Step 6: Start Using Your New Plugin!

- The new function now appears as a selectable “model” in the chat interface.
- Select `Anthropic` (or whatever you installed), and start chatting!

![Select Pipe Function as Model Screenshot](/images/getting-started/pipe-select-model.png)

## 🎉 That’s It—You’re Plugged Into Anything!

- Pipe Functions open Open WebUI to *any* API, model, or automation—not just OpenAI-compatible endpoints.
- Think beyond LLMs: Integrate tools, APIs, local scripts, or your entire smart home.

## ⚠️ Security Notes

- **Always** review function code before enabling.
- Only use plugins from trusted sources.
- You have the power to enhance (or break!) your WebUI—use responsibly.

### Next Steps & Learn More

- [Pipe Functions Guide](https://docs.openwebui.com/features/plugin/functions/pipe)
- [Browse community functions](https://openwebui.com/functions)

🚀 With Pipe Functions, your Open WebUI is limited *only by your imagination*!