---
alias: user-guide-accessing-the-system
description: "Access the system via application login, utilizing credentials and following application navigation instructions"
---

# Accessing The System

## System Requirements

The Critical Manufacturing MES user interface is based on HTML5. In order to access the system, it is necessary to meet the specifications described in the [Client Devices](../../systemrequirements/clientdevices.md) section of the System Requirements.

## Application Login

To access the application, open the application URL provided by the application administrator.

The application is designed to self-update when an update is detected, so it may take a few moments if the download is taking place for the first time.

When the application is launched, you will be prompted to enter a username and password. The user name can be entered in the form of domain\user or simply user.

![Application Login](images/login.png)

!!! warning
    The password is case-sensitive.

It is also possible to have the application save your credentials by checking the option **Keep me signed in**.

If token-based authentication is configured, it is possible to identify and authenticate a user based on the token, which is read from a keyboard wedge device, such as an RFID reader or a barcode scanner. Hence, if token-based authentication is enabled, it is possible to switch to the standard authentication method based on the user name and password.

For increased security, when using token-based authentication, you may be prompted to enter your PIN in a text box that will appear after the token has been read.

After your login is successfully validated and once the application is loaded, the login information will be shown on the bottom left of the application.

!!! info
	It is possible to activate a specific configuration in the Security Portal to allow the user to choose to remain logged in even when the browser is closed. For further information on this configuration, please consult the [Security Portal](../../operationguide/system-administration/security/security-portal/index.md) section of the Operations Guide.

![Screenshot showing the option to remain signed in.](images/remain_logged_in.png)

Depending on the authentication configuration, you may also be prompted to trust the device after logging in. If you select **Yes, use this device**, you can log in quickly and securely on that device in future sessions by using the device’s biometrics.

![Screenshot showing the option to log in faster on the device.](images/login_faster.png)

### Login Page Background

The login page can use one of four predefined backgrounds to reflect the project's industry: Semiconductors, Medical, Electronics, or Industrial Equipment.

=== "Semiconductors"

    ![Semiconductors login page background.](images/semi-background.jpg)

=== "Medical"

    ![Medical login page background.](images/medical-background.jpg)

=== "Electronics"

    ![Electronics login page background.](images/electronics-background.jpg)

=== "Industrial Equipment"

    ![Industrial Equipment login page background.](images/ie-background.jpg)

For configuration details, see the [GUI Review Migration Guide](https://developer.criticalmanufacturing.com/12.0/explore/guides/migration/version-specific/1200/gui_review_1200/) for version 12.0.0.

## Reset Password

To reset your password, select **Forgot Password?** on the application login page. The system sends password recovery instructions to the **Email Address** associated with your user account.

![Screenshot showing the password recovery form on the login page.](images/forgot_password.png)

!!! note
    Password recovery requires a valid Email Address associated with your user account. For more information, see [[user-guide-security-users#creating-a-user]].

    This option applies to accounts that use a local Authentication Strategy. If your account uses an external identity provider, reset your password through that provider or contact your application administrator.

Depending on your account configuration, you may be prompted to change your password at your next login. When prompted, enter and confirm your new password on the **Reset Password** page.

![Screenshot showing the Reset Password page.](images/reset_password.png)

## Application Help

To access the online [Critical Manufacturing Documentation Portal](https://help.criticalmanufacturing.com), go to the **User** menu on the top right of your screen and select **Help**. The client device must have network access to the Documentation Portal.

![Screenshot showing the Help section.](images/mes_help.png)

## View Shortcuts

To view all the shortcuts of the application, go to the **User** menu on the top right of your screen and select **View Shortcuts**.

![Screenshot showing a list of application shortcuts.](images/view_shortcuts.png)

## Change PIN

To change your PIN in the application, go to the **User** menu on the top right of your screen and select **Change PIN**.

![Screenshot showing the Change PIN option.](images/change_pin.png)

## Application Unlock

To unlock the session, simply enter your credentials (password, PIN or other type, depending on your configuration).

!!! info
	It is possible to configure the application to lock automatically after a predefined idle time. For more information, please refer to the [Users](../administration/security/users.md) page in the Security section of this guide.

![Screenshot showing the Application Unlock form.](images/unlock.png)

## Sign Out

To exit the application, simply close the browser tab or go to the **User** menu on the top right of your screen and select **Yes, Sign Out**.

![Screenshot showing the Sign Out confirmation dialog.](images/mes_logout.png)