This guide focuses on the Cline editor setup. Cline is available across multiple developer environments, but custom provider settings may vary depending on the platform.
Where you can use Cline
Cline is available in several developer environments.| Platform | Guidance |
|---|---|
| VS Code | Recommended setup path for this guide. |
| Cursor | Use the Cline extension if available in your editor. |
| Windsurf | Use the Cline extension if available in your editor. |
| VSCodium | Use the Cline extension if available in your editor. |
| JetBrains IDEs | Use the Cline JetBrains plugin and configure OpenAI-compatible settings if available. |
| CLI | Cline CLI exists, but this guide does not cover CLI configuration. |
| SDK and advanced surfaces | Not covered in this guide. Use the editor setup unless you are building a custom workflow. |
Before you start
You need:- an OverControl account;
- an OverControl API key;
- the OverControl Base URL;
- one OverControl model ID;
- Cline installed in your editor.
Get your API key
Create an API key before connecting OverControl to Cline.
Step 1: Install Cline
Install Cline in your editor.Open extensions or plugins
In VS Code-style editors, open the Extensions panel. In JetBrains IDEs, open the Plugins marketplace.
Step 2: Open Cline settings
Open the Cline panel and go to settings. The provider settings are where you choose which model provider Cline should use.Step 3: Select OpenAI Compatible
In Cline settings, choose OpenAI Compatible as the API provider. This option lets Cline connect to providers that expose an OpenAI-compatible endpoint.Step 4: Enter the OverControl connection values
Enter the OverControl values in the provider fields.Step 5: Save and test the connection
Save the provider settings. Then send a simple test prompt in Cline:How to use Cline with OverControl
Once connected, use Cline for focused coding tasks. Good tasks include:- understanding a new codebase;
- explaining a file or function;
- planning an implementation;
- debugging an error;
- reviewing a change;
- refactoring code;
- writing tests;
- improving documentation.
Recommended workflow
Approve actions carefully
Review file reads, edits, terminal commands, and browser actions before approving them.
Troubleshooting
Cline says the API key is invalid
Cline says the API key is invalid
Check that the OverControl API key was copied correctly and has not been revoked. Create a new key if needed.
Cline cannot connect to the provider
Cline cannot connect to the provider
Check that the Base URL is correct and that your network allows the connection.
Cline says the model was not found
Cline says the model was not found
Make sure the model ID is copied exactly.
The OpenAI Compatible provider is missing
The OpenAI Compatible provider is missing
Make sure you are using a Cline surface that exposes custom provider settings.
Requests fail after setup
Requests fail after setup
Check your plan, usage allowance, API access, model ID, Base URL, and API key.
Next steps
Get your API key
Create and manage your OverControl API key.
Models
Choose the right model for Cline.
Integrations overview
Return to all supported integrations.

