# Use the built-in agent

> Built-in mode routes agent requests through Recense — no API key required. Usage is metered against your plan's token allowance and visible in the Account panel.

*Source:* https://recense.ai/docs/hosted-agent

## How it works

- Same agent sidebar, tools, and capabilities as BYOK mode.
- Provider and model selection is managed by Recense.
- Usage is tracked in built-in agent tokens per month.

## Setup

1. **Open the AI Agent settings panel.** — Access it from the main sidebar.
2. **Switch Mode from BYOK to Built-in.** — This activates the hosted agent.
3. **The chat unlocks immediately — no key entry needed.** — You can start prompting right away.
4. **Start prompting.** — The agent has the same capabilities as BYOK mode.

## Usage limits

- Token allowance varies by tier (Starter vs Pro).
- The Account panel shows remaining token usage.
- If the Built-in toggle is unavailable, your tier may not include this feature.

## When to choose hosted

- You want the fastest possible setup.
- Team members should use the agent without individual provider accounts.
- You prefer centralised usage tracking in Recense instead of across provider consoles.

## Next steps

- **[Agent recipes](/docs/agent-recipes)** — Get more out of the built-in agent with prompt patterns.
- **[Team and billing](/docs/team-and-billing)** — Token allowances and how to upgrade if you need more.
- **[Bring your own keys (BYOK)](/docs/bring-your-own-keys)** — Switch to your own provider key for unlimited usage.
- **[Write dataset instructions](/docs/dataset-instructions)** — Give the hosted agent persistent context about your survey.