> 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/data-security-documentation/inventory-and-monitoring/dashboards-and-reports/create-dashboards.md).

# Create dashboards

You can create fully customized dashboards—start from a blank canvas or choose an existing template.

## Dashboard core elements

You can use the following elements to build your dashboards:

* **Widgets:** The modular building blocks of a dashboard. Drag widgets on to your blank canvas to start building your dashboard. Choose from predefined system widgets or create custom widgets that analyze specific datasets using XQL, Scripts, or by using AI.
* **Static elements:** Headers, titles, and free text blocks that can help you structure your dashboard.
* **Templates:** Pre-configured layouts designed for specific use cases (such as SOC overviews or threat hunting) to help you deploy functional dashboards instantly
* **Filters:** Global filters that allow dashboard users to adjust the dashboard's scope by selecting predefined or dynamic values.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Global filters are available for dashboards that include custom XQL widgets with defined parameters. For more information, see [Create XQL widgets](/data-security-documentation/inventory-and-monitoring/dashboards-and-reports/advanced-configuration/create-custom-widgets/create-xql-widgets.md).
{% endhint %}

* **Drilldowns:** Interactive elements that allow dashboard users to dive deeper into data. Clicking data points can trigger contextual changes, run an XQL search, or link to external URLs, other dashboards, and reports.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:** Drilldowns are available for dashboards that include custom XQL widgets. For more information, see [Create XQL widgets](/data-security-documentation/inventory-and-monitoring/dashboards-and-reports/advanced-configuration/create-custom-widgets/create-xql-widgets.md).
{% endhint %}


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