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

# Creating Your Account

### **Authentication Methods**

Perle Labs supports three secure ways to create and access your account:

#### **1. Wallet Connection (Recommended)**

**Best for:** Users who already have a **Solana-compatible wallet** and prefer full control of their account and rewards.

* **Connect your Solana wallet**: supported options include [Phantom](https://phantom.com/), [Solflare](https://www.solflare.com/), [Backpack](https://learn.backpack.exchange/wallet/solana), and other Solana-based wallets.
* **Fully decentralized**: No email or password required.
* **Instant access:** Once connected, your wallet becomes your identity on the network.
* **Direct reward integration:** Earn and claim rewards directly through your wallet.
* **Self-custodial:** You always control your private keys and assets; Perle Labs never stores them.

**Tip**: If you’re new to Solana wallets, Phantom is a great starting option — it’s secure, browser-friendly, and integrates seamlessly with Perle Labs.

#### **2. Google Authentication (Fast & Secure)**

**Best for:** Users who prefer a quick, familiar login experience with built-in security.

* Click “Sign in with Google.”
* You’ll be redirected to Google’s OAuth system to verify your identity.
* No separate password required. Perle Labs **only** receives your basic account info (name, email, and profile image).
* Your contributor profile is automatically created and linked to your Google account.
* **Easy recovery:** If you switch devices or browsers, simply log in again using the same Google account.
* **Wallet upgrade:** You can later connect your wallet to enable reward payouts and full web3 functionality.

**Security Note:** Perle Labs never accesses your Google credentials or inbox. Authentication happens entirely through Google’s secure OAuth system.

#### 3. Email Authentication (Accessible & Simple)

**Best for:** Contributors who prefer traditional login without using external accounts or wallets.

* Enter your email address and click “Login with Email.”
* You’ll receive a one-time password (OTP) in your inbox.
* Enter the code to verify and complete registration. No permanent password is needed.
* Once verified, you can log in anytime using your email and a new OTP.
* **Wallet upgrade:** You can later connect your wallet to enable reward payouts and full web3 functionality.

**Tip:** Check your spam folder if you don’t receive the OTP within a few minutes.

### Account Setup Process

1. **Choose Your Login Method:** Select your preferred option: Wallet, Google, or Email.
2. **Complete Verification:** Follow the steps for your chosen method (OTP, Google OAuth, or wallet signature).
3. **Enter Referral Code (Optional):** If you were invited, enter your referral code to earn bonus points.
4. **Set Up Your Profile:** Add your name, avatar, and domain expertise (optional, but recommended).
5. **Start Contributing:** Once registered, you can immediately explore tasks, earn points, and begin building your reputation.

### Referral Integration

* **Have a referral code?** Enter it during signup to receive a bonus on your first completed task.
* **Your referrer** earns a small percentage commission on your verified activity.
* **Don’t have a code?** No problem, you can skip this step.
* After registration, you can **generate your own referral code** and invite others to join the network.

### Linking Multiple Accounts (Optional but Recommended)

Once your account is created, you can link multiple authentication methods for added flexibility and security:

* **Link a Wallet:** If you signed up with Google or Email, connect a Solana wallet (Phantom, Solflare, Backpack, etc.) anytime to enable rewards and onchain participation.
* **Link Your Google or Email Account:** If you joined with a wallet, you can connect Google or Email to simplify login and password recovery.
* Linked accounts share the same profile, reputation score, and reward balance — ensuring your contributor identity remains unified across all login methods.
* You can disconnect or change linked accounts at any time from your account settings.

### Security and Privacy

* All authentication options are encrypted end-to-end and protected by Cloudflare security verification to prevent spam and automated sign-ups.
* No personal information is collected during this step, it’s purely a bot-prevention and access security measure.
* After verification, you’ll proceed directly to the signup flow you selected (Google, Wallet, or Email).
* Perle Labs **never** stores private keys, passwords, or sensitive account data.
* All identity and wallet actions are verified through Cloudflare security checks and blockchain signatures.
* By using Perle Labs, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, accessible during signup.