# Getting started (/docs/getting-started)



## 1. Sign in [#1-sign-in]

Open [Cento](https://app.cento.sh) and sign in. Onboarding guides you through
installing Cento and connecting your machine.

## 2. Install Cento [#2-install-cento]

Follow the installation instructions in onboarding for your operating system.

The script downloads the signed `cento` CLI for your platform and immediately
runs `cento host install`, which sets everything up: the background daemon,
automatic start on login, and pairing. See [install](/docs/install) for
Windows and other paths.

## 3. Approve pairing [#3-approve-pairing]

During install, Cento prints a link. Open it in a browser where you're signed
in to Cento and click **Approve** — that's the only manual step. Your machine
is now linked to your account. Details: [pairing](/docs/pairing).

## 4. Verify [#4-verify]

```bash
cento doctor
```

Exit code 0 means your machine is ready. Anything missing is listed with what
to do about it.

## 5. Create your first workspace [#5-create-your-first-workspace]

Open the Cento dashboard in your browser, create a project, and start a
workspace. The workspace runs on your machine — agents get a real checkout,
real terminals, and real running services, and you watch it all live from the
browser.