> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://doc.wearepatchworks.com/product-documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://doc.wearepatchworks.com/product-documentation/developer-hub/connector-builder/building-your-own-connector/3-authentication-methods/authentication-method-options/connector-variables.md).

# Connector variables

## Introduction

The **connector variables** tab displays any i[nstance-level, shared variables](/product-documentation/developer-hub/connector-builder/building-your-own-connector/2-connector-variables.md) that you defined in [Step 2: connector variables](/product-documentation/developer-hub/connector-builder/building-your-own-connector/2-connector-variables.md) - for example:

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/iGM2gUKx3r70KBlcPUO2" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

## Using a connector variable in your authentication method

If you want to use any of these variables in this authentication method, click the **use** button:

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/WqeILR94LN60JKBIkjKm" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

This copies the variable into the **auth variables** tab - for example:

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/dLYfCzPJbuaUVje9QjL0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

<details>

<summary><img src="/files/JOYoP4EdSu7WJ3CMdAAS" alt="" data-size="line"> Show me</summary>

![](/files/K4UUTsG4HFFo6C0EEMkt)

</details>

From here, the variable is treated like any other [auth variable](/product-documentation/developer-hub/connector-builder/building-your-own-connector/3-authentication-methods/authentication-method-options/auth-variables.md) - you will need to set options to determine if/how this variable is displayed to users, and how any values for it should be passed in API requests for authentication.

## Removing a connector variable from auth variables

If you choose to **use** a connector variable- i.e. to copy it to the **auth variables** tab - but later change your mind - you can remove it by clicking the associated **trash icon** on the **auth variables** tab - for example:

<div align="left"><figure><img src="/files/wAf4Ymt7RamPgGRrlkHV" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

This clears the connector variable from the **auth variables** tab but the original 'shared' connector variable remains available for future use.