---
title: "Creating an account"
---

To get started, you'll need to ((sign up)) for a runZero account. The default account is a trial of the full runZero Platform. After the trial expires, you will have the option to convert to the free Community Edition or purchase a subscription.

[Sign up for a runZero account](https://www.runzero.com/try/) 

<iframe src="https://demo.arcade.software/kNfGJexlNYeIvr262DC8?embed" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen title="Walkthrough - Creating Account"></iframe>

## ((Activating your account))

After you sign up for an account, we'll email you a link to activate your account. If you don't see an email from us, check your spam folder. 

Open the link in the email to go to the **Activation** page. Follow the instructions on the page to activate your account. You'll need to provide your name, set up a password, specify your location, and accept our [privacy policy](https://www.runzero.com/legal/privacy/) and [terms of service](https://www.runzero.com/legal/terms/).

After activating your account, you'll be taken directly to the runZero Console. Your new account has administrative access, so you will be able to manage [sites](sites.md), [organizations](organizations.md), [users](managing-your-team.md), and [Explorers](installing-an-explorer.md).

If you have any trouble creating your account, please contact [support](mailto:support@runzero.com).

## Changing your password

To change your password, go to your [account settings](https://console.runzero.com/settings). You'll need to provide your current password before you can enter a new one. 

All ((passwords|password rules)) must contain:

- At least 8 characters
- At least 1 uppercase character
- At least 1 lowercase character
- At least 1 number 

## Updating your profile picture

User ((profile images)) are managed through [Gravatar](https://gravatar.com/) and associated with your email address. If you don't have an account, [sign up for one](https://en.gravatar.com/support/about-profiles/).