Installation
Most users do not need to install anything to start using Zcrafter. If you are using the hosted experience, you can open it in a supported browser and sign in.
What you need
- A current browser such as Chrome, Edge, Safari, or Firefox
- A stable internet connection
- Your email address for sign-in
- If you plan to use live mainframe actions: your connection details and any required VPN or network access
If you are using the web app
You are ready to begin if you can:
- open the app in a current browser
- receive email verification codes
- reach the network your mainframe requires, if applicable
You do not need to bring your own API key to use Zcrafter.
If you are using mobile
For the best experience:
- use the latest Safari on iPhone or iPad, or the latest Chrome on Android
- keep your browser updated
- refresh the page after major UI changes if something looks stale
- make sure extensions, blockers, or browser settings are not interrupting sign-in flows
If you are connecting a mainframe
Keep the following ready before you begin:
- Host name or address
- Port
- User ID
- Password
- Any internal certificate, proxy, or network requirements your team uses
- VPN access if your environment is not exposed publicly
If you are not sure what to enter, ask your team administrator or mainframe owner before trying to connect.
First-time checklist
Before your first serious session, make sure you can:
- Sign in successfully.
- Open Settings > Usage and confirm your current plan.
- Start a chat with Aura.
- Open a new chat or project.
- Connect your mainframe only when you are ready to use live datasets, members, or jobs.
Common setup mistakes
- Trying to use saved projects while signed out
- Expecting normal chat to require a mainframe connection
- Starting a live mainframe task without VPN or network access
- Assuming a stale page reflects the latest UI without refreshing
If any of those happen, use Troubleshooting.