# Quick Start from macOS or Windows
This guide is intended for people connecting from a machine running Windows or macOS.
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For people connecting from Linux please follow the [Linux Installation Guide](/installation/connecting-from-linux.md).
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### Step 1: Sign up for NoPorts or log into the NoPorts Management Portal
If you have not already signed up or purchased NoPorts, go to [my.noports.com](https://my.noports.com/no-ports-invite/30dayfreetrial) and sign up for a subscription or free trial then proceed to **Step 2**.\
\
If you already have a NoPorts account, you’ll need to start by logging into the Management Portal. Go to [my.noports.com/login](https://my.noports.com/login) and enter your registered email address to receive your one‑time password. Once logged in, select the subscription for the Atsigns you want to activate, then continue with the instructions below.
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Make note of your atSigns (e.g., @example01\_np, @example02\_np). You'll need them shortly.
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### Step 2: Initiate Atsign activation in the Management Portal
1. Click **Activate All** and wait for the activation file to be generated.
2. Once its completed, download the activation file. It should look something like youratsigns\_activation\_file.yaml.
### Step 3: Download the NoPorts desktop application
Download the NoPorts desktop app using one of the links below:
[Link to Apple Store](https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/noports-desktop/id6737338881)
[Link to Windows Store](https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9n69scrrgv6r)
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For people connecting from Linux please follow the [Linux Installation Guide](/installation/connecting-from-linux.md).
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### Step 4: Complete Atsign activation in the NoPorts desktop application
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In this installation guide, `@example01_np` will represent the client atSign, while `@example02_np` will represent the device atSign.
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1. Launch the NoPorts desktop application and click **Get Started** and then click **Complete Activation**
2. Upload or drag and drop you activation file (.yaml) and then click **Next**.
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If you don’t have an activation file, you can activate your Atsigns individually by entering each one in the Manual Atsign section and following the steps provided in the app.
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For Windows, if the app stalls at "Preparing for activation", verify that your CA certificates are up to date.
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### Step 4: Save your atKeys
Your atKeys (cryptographic keys) will be used to pair your atSign with this and other devices in future. You can [learn more about these keys here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRRLCOHP-BY).
1. Click on **Save atKeys**
2. Select a memorable location on your machine and **save** your keys.
All your Atsigns will be activated and the keys will be saved in your chosen location.
### Step 5: Generate a device atSign authorization passcode
Once the activation process is complete you will be signed in using one of your activated Atsigns. This will be your device Atsign, e.g. @example02\_np.
Click on **Authenticator** at the top of the screen and then click on **OTP.** Take note of the 6-character code as you will use it in **Step 8**.
### Step 6: Switch to the machine you are connecting to OR use a demo profile to access our test page
Now that your atSigns are ready, you can either set up your remote machine or try our hidden test page.
* **Remote machine setup:** Install NoPorts on the remote machine, authorize atSign access to the remote machine and create a connection profile in the desktop app (about 10 minutes).
* **Test page:** Try our demo profile to access our hidden test page if you don't have a machine to connect to.
**Remote Machine Setup**\
Please select the operating system running on the machine you are connecting to and follow the relevant instructions on that machine:
**OR Test Page**
1. In the NoPorts desktop application, on the Connections tab, you'll see a banner saying "Demo. Click here to load the test profile." Click **Try Now.**
2. Once the profile has been added to your list, click the **Connect Icon ▶️** to establish a connection.
3. Open a web browser and navigate to`http://localhost:8080`.
Congratulations! You're connected to a hidden webpage via NoPorts!
---
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