What Are Workers?
Workers are volunteer-run software that process AI generation requests for the Horde. They poll the AI Horde API for pending jobs, generate results using your GPU, and return them to the requesting user. In return, you earn kudos, the Horde's priority currency.
There are three types of workers: Dreamers generate images, Scribes produce text, and Alchemists handle post-processing tasks like upscaling and captioning. Each worker loads one or more models, the trained AI files that determine what it can generate.
Worker Types
Image Generation (Dreamers)
Generate AI images using Stable Diffusion, SDXL, Flux, and other image models. Image workers are in high demand and earn kudos quickly.
Text Generation (Scribes)
Power text generation using Large Language Models (LLMs). Help users with creative writing, conversations, and more.
Compatible Backends
Bridge Required: These backends connect to the Horde via the AI-Horde-Worker.
Post-Processing (Alchemists)
Handle post-processing tasks such as image upscaling, face fixing, captioning, and interrogation. Alchemists complement image workers by enhancing their outputs.
Good to Know
User Privacy
Workers never receive any identifying information about the user who submitted a request. All requests are anonymized by the API before being dispatched to workers.
Network Security
Workers only make outbound connections to poll the API for jobs. They never listen on ports or accept incoming connections, so running a worker does not expose your system to the internet.
Trust System
The Horde uses a trust and suspicion system to protect against abuse. Workers that consistently deliver quality results build trust, while those producing bad outputs are flagged and eventually excluded.
Obligations
You volunteer your GPU when it's idle and stop whenever you want. There are no costs or obligations to run a worker, and you can uninstall the software at any time. You can recover the effort you put in by spending kudos.
Not able to run a worker? If you don't have a compatible GPU or can't run a worker, you can still support the AI Horde through financial contributions
Getting Started
Register an Account
Create an account at aihorde.net to get your API key. This key identifies your worker and tracks your earned kudos.
Choose Your Worker Software
Pick the software for the type of work you want to do: horde-worker-reGen for images, KoboldCpp or Aphrodite for text, or AI-Horde-Worker for alchemy.
Configure Your Worker
Enter your API key, select which models you want to serve, and configure your preferences. The worker software includes detailed configuration guides.
Start Contributing
Launch your worker and start earning kudos! Join our Discord community for support, tips, and to connect with other workers.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join our Discord community to get help setting up your worker, share your experiences, and become part of the AI Horde family.