> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://cortex-docs.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex-xdr-5.x/onboard-cortex-xdr/deployment-steps/set-up-authentication/authenticate-users-through-the-customer-support-portal-1.md).

# Authenticate users through the Customer Support Portal

When you add users to your Customer Support Portal account, they receive an invitation. After accepting it, they can access Cortex Gateway and tenants.

Users cannot view tenants or tenant data until you assign a role. Only Account Admins can make changes in Cortex Gateway.

{% hint style="info" %}

### Note

You must have the Customer Support Portal Super User role to add users.

The first Super User who signs in to Cortex Gateway becomes an Account Admin. Additional users require tenant access assignments.
{% endhint %}

Users sign in to Cortex Gateway or the tenant with their Customer Support Portal credentials. This is the default authentication method.

{% hint style="info" %}

### Note

After users accept their invitations, manage them in Cortex Gateway or the Cortex XDR tenant.
{% endhint %}

### Add users

1. Sign in to the [Customer Support Portal](https://support.paloaltonetworks.com/).
2. Add users using one of these methods:
   * Create a user from **Members** → **Create New User**. The invitation expires after seven days. For details, see [How a Super User Creates a New Customer Support Portal User Account](https://knowledgebase.paloaltonetworks.com/KCSArticleDetail?id=kA10g000000ClNPCA0).
   * Create an account registration link from **Account Management** → **Account Details** → **User Access**. Share the link with users. For details, see [How to Use the Account Registration Link](https://knowledgebase.paloaltonetworks.com/KCSArticleDetail?id=kA10g000000ClNXCA0).
3. Sign in to [Cortex Gateway](https://cortex-gateway.paloaltonetworks.com/accounts).
4. Assign each accepted user a direct role or user group role.


---

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