File Handling in Azure OpenAI Assistant API

Question

How is thread data handled and where is it stored in the state fullness of the Assistant API? Additionally, what are the security considerations for uploading files, such as where are they saved and under what permissions?

Answer 1

Thanks for the question, Files can be uploaded via Studio, or programmatically. The file_ids parameter is required to give tools like code_interpreter access to files. When using the File upload endpoint, you must have the purpose set to assistants to be used with the Assistants API.

While the Assistant API maintains conversation context to provide more coherent responses, it doesn't store user data permanently. Instead, it retains context during the active conversation session to generate relevant responses.Thread data, including conversation history and context, is stored temporarily in memory during the active session. Once the session ends or times out, this data is purged from memory to ensure user privacy and data security.All data transmission between the user's device and the Assistant API is encrypted using industry-standard encryption protocols (e.g., HTTPS) to protect against unauthorized access or interception.

The Assistant API adheres to relevant data protection regulations, such as GDPR and CCPA, to ensure that user data is handled responsibly and in compliance with applicable laws. Access to thread data is restricted to authorized personnel only, and stringent access controls are in place to prevent unauthorized access or misuse. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/ai-services/openai/how-to/assistant#supported-file-types

Answer 2

Hello,

During my research, I noticed that the Azure OpenAI documentation on Microsoft Learn does not mention file access policies. However, OpenAI's documentation does address certain data usage policies. Regrettably, as far as I am aware, the actual storage locations of the data remain a black box, and I am looking forward to more transparency in this area.

Best regards,
Charlie

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