> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://learn.netmaker.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://learn.netmaker.io/features/conditional-access/device-approvals.md).

# Device Approvals

## Overview

Netmaker provides flexible device enrollment, allowing either automatic joins or admin approval through the Auto-Join setting.

## Network Join Flow

When a device attempts to join a Netmaker network, one of two things happens:

* It joins the network immediately (Auto-Join enabled)
* It waits for admin approval (Auto-Join disabled)

This allows teams to balance speed, automation, and security depending on the use case.

## Auto-Join

![](/files/9LO2ZFis3aH2GVmqfv7z)

### How it works

* When **Auto-Join is enabled**, any device using a valid enrollment key is added to the network instantly. No admin interaction is required; devices appear directly in the **Nodes** interface as active nodes.
* When **Auto-Join is disabled**, devices requesting access are placed in the **Pending Devices** window and require manual admin approval before joining.

### Enable or disable Auto-Join

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Navigate to All Networks

Go to the **All Networks** screen.

![](/files/vuBgD44yNbCRBUGKbZNk)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Edit your network

Click **Edit** on the network you want to configure.

![](/files/iij74Mf7q6vHZ63gBUod)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Toggle Auto-Join

Toggle **Auto-Join** on or off.

![](/files/NvJBxoLfCzS5UhrBnTzc)
{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Save changes

Save the changes to apply the new Auto-Join setting.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Pending Devices

When **Auto-Join is disabled**, device enrollment requests are held for review under **Pending Devices**.

### Accessing Pending Devices

* Navigate to **Networks → Your Network → Nodes**
* Click **Pending devices** in the top-right corner

![](/files/WT88gxqjOLYyyUALuOY4)

* The panel shows how many requests are waiting for review

### What admins can do

From the **Pending Devices** panel, administrators can:

![](/files/Pb6JYq7TqwmvoTFxm7g8)

* **Approve** a device to allow it to join the network.
* **Decline** a device to deny access.
* Review **device name** and **request time** before deciding.

Approved devices immediately appear in the Nodes list and begin participating in the network.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Security Best Practices

* Enable Auto-Join in trusted internal or automated environments.
* Disable Auto-Join for externally accessible networks.
* Regularly monitor the Pending Devices list.
* Decline unexpected or unknown device requests.
  {% endhint %}

## Summary

The **Auto-Join** feature gives administrators control over how devices enter a Netmaker network. Whether prioritizing speed or security, these tools ensure device enrollment aligns with your operational and security requirements. By choosing the right configuration, teams can scale confidently while maintaining visibility and control over network access.


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