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

# Your account

## Creating an account

1. Open app.sterlinglabs.co. Select **Log in** in the sidebar, or try any action that needs an account, and the sign-in dialog opens over the page.
2. Choose **Sign up**. Enter your email address and a password, or use one of the sign-in providers offered.
3. Tick **I agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy**. Both documents are available at app.sterlinglabs.co/legal without signing in. Your consent is recorded against your account.
4. Complete any verification your chosen method asks for.

The first time you sign in, a brief **Setting up your account** card appears while your trial is created. Your seven-day trial starts immediately; see [Trial and plans](/getting-started/trial-and-plans.md).

## Signing in

Select **Log in** and enter your credentials, or use the provider you signed up with. The dialog opens over whatever page you were on and closes when you are in. On a locked page the dialog stays until you sign in; on the Trading Pit you can dismiss it and keep reading.

## Signing out

Open the profile menu at the bottom of the sidebar and choose sign out. Cached data is cleared and the app returns to the visitor view.

## If access is paused

If Sterling cannot verify your account for a moment, the page reads **Access briefly paused**. Wait a few seconds and reload. If it persists, sign out and back in.


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