# Updating an instance

## Introduction

You can update an existing connector instance at any time. If you update an instance that is currently used in [process flows](https://doc.wearepatchworks.com/product-documentation/process-flows/building-process-flows), your changes will take effect as soon as the instance is saved. 

## The steps

To update an existing instance for one of your installed connectors, follow the steps below.

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
**Access your connectors**

Log in to the [Patchworks dashboard](https://app.wearepatchworks.com/login) and select `process flows` ➤ `connectors & instances` to access the `manage connectors` page.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Access settings for the required instance**

Locate the required connector and click the `settings` (i.e. cog) button. For example:

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://2440044887-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FLYNcUBVQwSkOMG6KjZfz%2Fuploads%2FFd2HRzdzWyDgQ6gwC099%2Fupdate%20instance%201.png?alt=media&#x26;token=bf4eb375-2863-4529-8707-0a7d11cda199" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

The `instance settings` page is displayed, with access to configuration options over `instance details`, `authentication`, and `certificates` tabs. For example:

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://2440044887-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FLYNcUBVQwSkOMG6KjZfz%2Fuploads%2F17vIjNM7s2dIbTeKNdmH%2Fupdate%20instance%202.png?alt=media&#x26;token=c968e02d-e2c3-4f46-ba96-9186954bab1e" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Review & update settings**

To update basic details for this instance, use the `instance details` tab. To update authentication credentials, click the `authentication` tab, and to update a certificate, use the `certificates` tab.

{% hint style="info" %}
For more information on these options, please refer to [Adding an instance](https://doc.wearepatchworks.com/product-documentation/connectors-and-instances/working-with-instances/adding-an-instance).
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Test & save**

Having made the required changes, you can use the `test instance connection` button to check authentication credentials are valid, then click `save instance settings` to save your changes.

{% hint style="info" %}
You can't save an instance with invalid authentication credentials.&#x20;

Using the `test instance connection` option before saving allows you to verify credentials without committing your changes. This option is not available for instances where the underlying authentication type is `OAuth 2 (authorisation code)`, or any other authentication type where an extra step is required for the user to verify their credentials. &#x20;
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Changes are retained as you switch between tabs - there's no need to `save instance settings` each time.&#x20;
{% endhint %}
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}