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

# First-Run Setup

> What each step of the setup wizard does

The first time you open Kernel (or any time no admin account exists), it opens straight into the setup wizard instead of the normal sign-in screen.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Database">
    Choose SQLite (default, no setup needed) or connect an existing Postgres, MySQL, or MSSQL server. Use Test Connection before continuing; this step writes `data/db.json` and restarts the server, so the wizard resumes automatically from where you left off.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Server">
    Basic server settings.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Admin account">
    Create the first user. This account is an admin and can create more users later from Settings. The token issued here is short-lived (24 hours); after finishing setup you'll sign in normally, which issues a regular session token.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Preferences">
    General server preferences.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Live TV source (optional)">
    Add an Xtream Codes, M3U, or HDHomeRun source. You can skip this and add it later from Settings.
  </Step>

  <Step title="EPG / channel mapping (optional)">
    Map imported channels to EPG guide data.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Library (optional)">
    Point Kernel at a folder of movies or TV shows to start your first library scan.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Third-party API keys">
    Add a TMDB API key (and any other configured providers) for metadata enrichment.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Review & finish">
    Confirm your choices. Finishing this step marks setup complete; the wizard won't reappear unless the admin account is somehow removed.
  </Step>
</Steps>

<Tip>
  Everything optional here (Live TV source, EPG mapping, Library) can be added or changed later from the admin Settings pages; the wizard isn't your only chance to configure them.
</Tip>


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