> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://apidocs.erlc.gg/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Creating Public Applications

A **public** application is any app that integrates with our API that is intended for public distribution. Examples of public apps include: Melonly, Sonoran CAD & CMS, Ducky, and more!

<Danger>
  **Public apps are <u>only</u> for <u>PUBLIC</u> apps. If you create an app that is only used in a single server, your application may be deleted without warning, leading to API errors.**\
  \
  If you are simply looking to authorize your IP to send remote commands instead, [read this page instead](/how-to-manage-trusted-ip-addresses).
</Danger>

## How can I get started?

Creating a public app is easy, once you have built some sample features, you can register an application on our API Dashboard.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create an App">
    Visit our API Dashboard's Developers section and click the "Create application button"

    All public applications must maintain an active and current:

    * App Description
    * App Feature List
    * Privacy Policy
    * Terms of Service

    Applications <u>must</u> keep their feature lists, terms of service, privacy policies up to date. Failing to maintain updated and accurate information can lead to a suspension of your API client.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Copy your Global API Key">
    Global API keys can only be viewed once. If you lose your key, you'll have to regenerate it.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Use your Global API Key">
    From now on, provide your applications Global Key in the `Authorization` header.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Copy your App's ID">
    Your app's ID is a string of numbers that appears underneath your apps name on the API Dashboard.

    You'll need your app's ID for [creating authorization links](/creating-authorization-links).
  </Step>
</Steps>