M4A

Semantic Kernel

Microsoft's enterprise SDK for integrating LLMs into applications

open-sourceproductioncsharppythonjavamicrosoftenterpriseopen-source
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Memory Types

semantic, episodic

Integrations

openai, azure, anthropic, huggingface


Overview


Semantic Kernel is Microsoft's enterprise-grade SDK for integrating large language models into applications. Unlike Python-first frameworks, Semantic Kernel provides first-class support for C#, Python, and Java, making it ideal for enterprises with .NET or Java stacks. It's designed with enterprise patterns like dependency injection, plugins, and planners.


The framework emphasizes production readiness with strong typing, comprehensive error handling, and integration with Microsoft's Azure ecosystem. Semantic Kernel's plugin architecture allows easy integration of custom functions and services, while its planner can automatically orchestrate function calls to achieve goals.


Key Features


  • **Multi-Language**: C#, Python, and Java SDKs
  • **Plugin System**: Modular functions and capabilities
  • **Planners**: Automatic task decomposition and orchestration
  • **Memory Stores**: Pluggable semantic memory
  • **Enterprise Patterns**: Dependency injection, logging, telemetry
  • **Azure Integration**: Deep integration with Azure services
  • **Function Calling**: Native function calling support
  • **Prompt Templates**: Reusable templating system

    • When to Use Semantic Kernel


    Semantic Kernel is ideal for:

  • Enterprise applications on .NET or Java stacks
  • Teams already invested in Microsoft ecosystem
  • Production applications requiring strong typing
  • Applications needing Azure integration
  • Teams familiar with enterprise design patterns
  • Projects requiring multi-language support

    • Pros


  • First-class support for C#, Python, and Java
  • Enterprise-grade design patterns
  • Strong Microsoft backing and support
  • Excellent Azure integration
  • Good for production enterprise applications
  • Comprehensive documentation
  • Active development
  • Well-suited for .NET developers

    • Cons


  • More verbose than Python-first frameworks
  • Smaller community than LangChain
  • Steeper learning curve for non-.NET developers
  • Less extensive third-party integration ecosystem
  • Microsoft ecosystem bias
  • Can feel heavyweight for simple use cases
  • Documentation assumes Microsoft stack familiarity

    • Pricing


  • **Open Source**: Free, MIT license
  • **Azure Services**: Azure OpenAI and other service costs apply
  • **Self-Hosted**: Free to deploy anywhere

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