> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.bothive.cloud/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Connect Your First Tool

> Connect Gmail, Slack, or any API and give your agent one safe capability.

Tools let an agent do useful work outside the chat. Start with one read capability before adding write actions.

## Use a built-in integration

Open **Integrations**, choose a provider, and connect its credentials. Bothive keeps secrets in the integration connection; do not paste tokens into prompts or HiveLang.

## Connect a custom API

Choose **Connect your API** and provide a name, base URL, authentication method, and endpoint. You can import OpenAPI JSON or YAML, paste a docs URL, or describe the endpoint manually.

<Warning>
  Every configured endpoint must pass a live test before the integration can be connected. Use safe test credentials and test data.
</Warning>

## Give the agent the capability

Return to the builder and select the connected capability. Describe when it should be used, what inputs it needs, and what should happen if the request fails.

## Add an approval gate

Reading data is usually low risk. Sending, publishing, deleting, charging, or inviting should wait for explicit approval. Test the approval card in Autopilot before enabling production traffic.