OpenHands/docs/usage/search-engine-setup.mdx
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Make some doc changes for consistency (#9309)
Co-authored-by: openhands <openhands@all-hands.dev>
2025-06-24 08:34:11 -04:00

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---
title: Search Engine Setup
description: Configure OpenHands to use Tavily as a search engine.
---
## Setting Up Search Engine in OpenHands
OpenHands can be configured to use [Tavily](https://tavily.com/) as a search engine, which allows the agent to search the web for information when needed. This capability enhances the agent's ability to provide up-to-date information and solve problems that require external knowledge.
### Getting a Tavily API Key
To use the search functionality in OpenHands, you'll need to obtain a Tavily API key:
1. Visit [Tavily's website](https://tavily.com/) and sign up for an account.
2. Navigate to the API section in your dashboard.
3. Generate a new API key.
4. Copy the API key (it should start with `tvly-`).
### Configuring Search in OpenHands
Once you have your Tavily API key, you can configure OpenHands to use it:
#### In the OpenHands UI
1. Open OpenHands and navigate to the Settings page.
2. Under the `LLM` tab, enter your Tavily API key (starting with `tvly-`) in the `Search API Key (Tavily)` field.
3. Click `Save` to apply the changes.
<Note>
The search API key field is optional. If you don't provide a key, the search functionality will not be available to the agent.
</Note>
#### Using Configuration Files
If you're running OpenHands in headless mode or via CLI, you can configure the search API key in your configuration file:
```toml
# In your OpenHands config file
[core]
search_api_key = "tvly-your-api-key-here"
```
### How Search Works in OpenHands
When the search engine is configured:
- The agent can decide to search the web when it needs external information.
- Search queries are sent to Tavily's API via [Tavily's MCP server](https://github.com/tavily-ai/tavily-mcp) which
includes a variety of [tools](https://docs.tavily.com/documentation/api-reference/introduction) (search, extract, crawl, map).
- Results are returned and incorporated into the agent's context.
- The agent can use this information to provide more accurate and up-to-date responses.
### Limitations
- Search results depend on Tavily's coverage and freshness.
- Usage may be subject to Tavily's rate limits and pricing tiers.
- The agent will only search when it determines that external information is needed.
### Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with the search functionality:
- Verify that your API key is correct and active.
- Check that your API key starts with `tvly-`.
- Ensure you have an active internet connection.
- Check Tavily's status page for any service disruptions.