What you need first
- A redeemed Boon key.
- Cline installed in a supported editor.
- A project where every AI change can be reviewed before it is accepted.
Setup steps
- Open Cline’s API configuration.
- Select OpenRouter if it appears in the provider list.
- Paste the key and choose a coding-capable model.
- If a custom endpoint is required, use OpenRouter’s current documented endpoint.
- Run a read-only test first: ask Cline to explain a file before editing anything.
Common Cline snags
- Agent tasks can make many requests, so watch the balance on large jobs.
- Provider settings may be per-workspace.
- Some models may not support the tool behavior an agent expects.
Review every diff
AI credit pays for model usage, not correctness. Review diffs, run tests, and keep secrets out of prompts before using an agent on real work.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cline safe for private code?
Only use tools and models whose data handling you understand, and follow your own security policy.
Why did my balance drop quickly?
Agentic coding tools can make many model calls. Use small tasks and choose models deliberately.