ONNX is an open format for machine learning (ML) models that is supported by various ML and DNN frameworks and tools. This format makes it easier to interoperate between frameworks and to maximize the reach of your hardware optimization investments. Learn more about ONNX on [https://onnx.ai](https://onnx.ai) or view the [Github Repo](https://github.com/onnx/onnx).
# Why use ONNX Runtime
## Run any ONNX model
ONNX Runtime provides comprehensive support of the ONNX spec and can be used to run all models based on ONNX v1.2.1 and higher. See ONNX version release details [here](https://github.com/onnx/onnx/releases).
You can use ONNX Runtime with both CPU and GPU hardware. You can also plug in additional execution providers to ONNX Runtime. With many graph optimizations and various accelerators, ONNX Runtime can often provide lower latency and higher efficiency compared to other runtimes. This provides smoother end-to-end customer experiences and lower costs from improved machine utilization.
Currently ONNX Runtime supports CUDA and MKL-DNN (with option to build with MKL) for computation acceleration, with more coming soon. To add an execution provider, please refer to [this page](docs/AddingExecutionProvider.md).
If you already have an ONNX model, just [install the runtime](#Installation) for your machine to try it out. One easy way to deploy the model on the cloud is by using [Azure Machine Learning](https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/services/machine-learning-service). See detailed instructions [here](https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/machine-learning/service/how-to-build-deploy-onnx).
For an overview of the high level architecture and key decisions in the technical design of ONNX Runtime, see [Engineering Design](docs/HighLevelDesign.md).
ONNX Runtime is built with an extensible design that makes it versatile to support a wide array of models with high performance.
