> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://hawkalpha.gitbook.io/what-is-hawkalpha/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://hawkalpha.gitbook.io/what-is-hawkalpha/getting-started-with-hawkalpha.md).

# Getting started with HawkAlpha

General overview on sign-up, selecting a plan, linking to broker, and running bots, all in under an hour\*.

To get started with HawkAlpha, you need to follow these steps:

* **Create a new account**: Navigate to [HawkAlpha.com](https://www.hawkalpha.com/) and select [Plans & Sign Up](https://www.hawkalpha.com/plans). You can sign up for HawkAlpha by providing your email and password. You will also need to choose a paid plan. HawkAlpha offers two plans:
  * **Starter**

    This is an entry-level plan that helps you become familiar with the app. It provides you with a paper account to forward-test your bot configurations.
  * **Premium**

    This plan is for users that are ready to start running bots on a live broker account.
* **Link to your broker via API**: HawkAlpha currently supports Alpaca, a commission-free and API-friendly broker that provides market data and trading services. You will need to create an [Alpaca account](https://alpaca.markets/) and link it to HawkAlpha via API keys. You will also need to choose a market data option: SIP (paid) or IEX (default & free).
* **Spin up a private VPS**: After linking your broker account, you will need to spin up a private virtual private server (VPS) that will host your bots and connect to your broker. **It's as easy as 1-click.** Each user has their own isolated VPS for maximum performance and security.
* **Create and run smart bots**: Once you have set up your VPS and broker connection, you can start creating and running smart bots on HawkAlpha. You can add tickers/symbols, configure settings, review and run bots, and view results on the bots section of the platform. You can also test your bot configurations on a paper account before going live.