# Connections

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Workbird supports connections to a wide range of third-party applications. Once connected, these apps can be used as **triggers** (to start a workflow) or **actions** (to perform tasks inside a workflow).

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### Connection Types

#### 1. OAuth Connections

Most modern applications use OAuth 2.0 for secure authentication, which allows you to connect without sharing your password. Examples include:

* **Google Workspace** (Gmail, Drive, Calendar, Sheets)
* **Microsoft 365** (Outlook, Teams, SharePoint)
* **Social Media Platforms** (LinkedIn, Facebook)
* **CRM Systems** (Salesforce, HubSpot)

#### 2. API Key Connections

Some services use simple API keys for authentication. Examples include:

* **Email Delivery Services** (SendGrid, Mailgun)
* **Analytics Platforms** (Google Analytics, Mixpanel)
* **Payment Providers** (Stripe, PayPal)

#### 3. Basic Authentication

Certain legacy systems and internal tools may use username and password for authentication.

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### Connecting Your First App

#### Step 1: Access App Registry

1. Go to **“Connections”** from your main menu.
2. Browse or search for the app you want to connect.
3. Select the app to open its connection setup.

#### Step 2: Authenticate

* **OAuth**: Authorize Workbird through the app’s secure login process.
* **API Key**: Enter the key provided by your service.
* **Basic Auth**: Enter username and password credentials (if supported).

#### Step 3: Configure & Test

* Give your connection a clear name (e.g., “Marketing Gmail Account”).
* Add optional notes to describe its use.
* Test the connection to ensure everything works correctly.

#### Step 4: Save & Use in Workflows

Once saved, the app will be available inside the workflow builder for use as triggers or actions.

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### Popular Integrations

Workbird integrates with many categories of tools, including:

* **Email & Communication**: Gmail, Outlook, Slack, Teams
* **CRM & Sales**: Salesforce, HubSpot, Pipedrive
* **Marketing**: Mailchimp, ActiveCampaign
* **Analytics & Data**: Google Analytics, BigQuery
* **Payments & E-commerce**: Stripe, PayPal, Shopify

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### Authentication Management

#### OAuth Token Refresh

OAuth connections automatically refresh when needed. If an app connection stops working, simply re-authorize it in Connections

#### API Key Rotation

When API keys change, update them in the connection settings. Your existing workflows will continue to work after the update.

#### Permission Management

* Review and confirm what permissions each connection requires.
* Remove connections you no longer need.
* Manage which team members can use each connection.

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### Custom Integrations

#### Bring Your Own Integration

If your desired app isn’t listed, Workbird supports custom integrations:

* Call APIs directly using workflow actions.
* Build private, reusable integrations for your team.
* Use MCP servers or internal APIs for specialized functionality.

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### Best Practices

#### Security

* Grant the **minimum permissions** required for your workflow.
* Rotate API keys regularly.
* Review app connections periodically.

#### Organization

* Use **descriptive names** for each connection.
* Document the purpose of every connection for your team.
* Remove unused or duplicate connections.

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### Troubleshooting

#### Common Issues

* **OAuth Failed**: Check that the correct permissions were granted and re-authorize if needed.
* **API Key Invalid**: Verify the key is correct and still active.
* **Connection Timeout**: Check the app’s availability or try again later.
* **Permission Denied**: Ensure the connected account has the required access.

#### Testing Connections

Each connection includes a **Test** function. Use it after setup or when troubleshooting issues to confirm everything works correctly.

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