> 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-xpanse/dashboards-and-reports/dashboards/create-a-dashboard.md).

# Create a dashboard

You can create custom dashboards that are tailored to your unique workflow and support your day-to-day operations. Cortex Xpanse provides dashboard templates that are based on the predefined dashboards, or you can build dashboards from scratch by selecting widgets and choosing their placement on the dashboard.

You can see all predefined and custom XQL widgets in the **Widgets Library**. Custom XQL widgets are built on Cortex Query Language (XQL) queries and provide the flexibility to query specific data, and select the graphical format you require (such as table, line graph, or pie chart).

After you've created and saved a custom dashboard, you can find it under **My Dashboards**.

How to create a custom dashboard

You can create custom dashboards based on predefined dashboard templates, or you can create a new dashboard from scratch.

1. Select Dashboards → Dashboards Manager → **+ New Dashboard**.
2. In the **Dashboard Builder**, enter a unique **Dashboard Name** and an optional **Description** of the dashboard.
3. Under **Dashboard Type**, choose a built-in dashboard template or a blank template, and click **Next**.
4. Customize your dashboard.

   Drag and drop widgets from the widgets library to the desired position in the dashboard.

   Click the options icon ![menu\_options\_button.png](/files/QbXyUqrP4Rkp8JUvUDKN) in the top right corner of a widget to customize the widget or remove the widget from the template.

   To get a feel for how the data will look, Cortex Xpanse provides mock data. To see how the dashboard would look with real data in your environment, you can use the toggle above the report to use **Real Data**.
5. Click **Next**.
6. To set the custom dashboard as your default dashboard, select **Define as default dashboard**.
7. To keep this dashboard visible only for you, select **Private**.

   Otherwise, the dashboard is public and visible to all Cortex Xpanse users with the appropriate roles to view dashboards.
8. Click **Generate** to complete your dashboard.


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