> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.verifone.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.verifone.com/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/devices/onboard-a-device.md).

# Onboard a Device

Use this page to choose the right onboarding method for your device estate.

### Before you start

Make sure you know:

* Whether your role allows you to add or manage devices
* How many devices you need to onboard
* Whether the device can reach the Device Management server
* Whether devices can auto-register on first contact
* Whether the tenant, hierarchy, or group context is correct
* Whether onboarding is handled in the UI, by file import, or through an integration

Prepare these device details when available:

* Serial number
* Device ID
* Model
* Network or deployment context needed for placement and registration

### Choose your onboarding path

Use this flow to select the right method.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### 1. How many devices are you onboarding?

* If you are onboarding one device, use [Add a single device](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/devices/add-devices/add-a-single-device.md).
* If you are onboarding many devices, go to the next step.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### 2. Can the device auto-register on first contact?

* If yes, use [Registering the device](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/devices/registering-the-device.md) to review the auto-registration flow and its setup requirements.
* If no, go to the next step.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### 3. How will you supply device data?

* Use [Bulk import devices](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/devices/add-devices/bulk-import-devices.md) for CSV or XML batch uploads.
* Use [Devices](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/devices.md) when onboarding is handled through an external integration and you need the broader onboarding and registration workflow.
* Use [Asset tracking](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/asset-tracking.md) when onboarding is part of shipment or custody workflows.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

### Result

After onboarding, the device record is available in Device Management for registration, monitoring, and later lifecycle tasks.

### Next steps

* [Add devices](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/devices/add-devices.md)
* [Add a single device](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/devices/add-devices/add-a-single-device.md)
* [Bulk import devices](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/devices/add-devices/bulk-import-devices.md)
* [Registering the device](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/devices/registering-the-device.md)
* [Asset tracking](/verifone-central-device-management/verifone-central/asset-tracking.md)


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