> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://zessai.gitbook.io/zessai-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://zessai.gitbook.io/zessai-docs/getting-started/how-do-i-connect-my-exchange.md).

# How do I connect my exchange?

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/oiGAyy8nbN0?si=6c9LZSE1-oeZ1QwV>" %}

Connecting your exchange to Zess only takes a few minutes using an API connection.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Open Exchange Keys

Go to:

**Config → Exchange Keys**

<figure><img src="https://3462103917-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FDh6TWcKfz0xFZOSAdy5Q%2Fuploads%2FnDzag3Nc57ZZE5cbTVMe%2Fconnect%20exchange%201.png?alt=media&amp;token=f8aaafa5-891b-4463-b35b-771af5ab511c" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Choose Your Exchange

Select the exchange you want to connect from the list of supported exchanges.

Examples include:

* Binance
* Bybit
* Hyperliquid
* OKX
* Other supported exchanges

<figure><img src="https://3462103917-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FDh6TWcKfz0xFZOSAdy5Q%2Fuploads%2FysfoOyafl5ZLk3sSbTQq%2Fconnect%20exchange%202.png?alt=media&amp;token=020d70c6-8642-4b8e-af6e-e9c33a324853" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Enter Your API Credentials

Follow the on-screen instructions to create an API key on your chosen exchange.

Enter your:

* API Key
* Secret Key
* Passphrase (if required)

<figure><img src="https://3462103917-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FDh6TWcKfz0xFZOSAdy5Q%2Fuploads%2FaPS3WxQQ7NAt2Z02UAVq%2Fconnect%20exchange%203.png?alt=media&amp;token=7229ac0e-d153-461f-890d-13c17260b82f" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Binance Demo Users

If you're connecting a **Binance Demo (Paper Trading)** account, make sure you **enable the "Testnet" option** before saving the exchange.

✅ **Demo Account:** Check **Testnet**

❌ **Live Account:** Leave **Testnet** unchecked.

Selecting the correct option ensures Zess connects to the appropriate Binance environment.

<figure><img src="https://3462103917-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FDh6TWcKfz0xFZOSAdy5Q%2Fuploads%2Fo9RGOCm8lkJ2b2iBkZJO%2Fconnect%20exchange%204.png?alt=media&amp;token=542c9171-ec26-409e-a54d-2e1460a0f727" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Save and Test the Connection

Click **Save** and then **Test Connection** to verify that Zess can communicate with your exchange successfully.

<figure><img src="https://3462103917-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FDh6TWcKfz0xFZOSAdy5Q%2Fuploads%2F7wuEvuu1FjhlExNb36li%2Fconnect%20exchange%205.png?alt=media&amp;token=5d80f2c0-b82d-4c9b-8706-4524faa58e13" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

### Which exchange should I use?

For most beginners, we recommend **Binance**.

Binance provides a **Demo (Paper Trading) Account**, allowing you to practice with virtual funds before trading with real money.

It's a great way to learn the platform, test strategies, and become familiar with Zess without risking your own capital.

Once you're confident, you can connect your live exchange account and begin trading with real funds.