Get Started with Named Credentials

Understand the basics of named credentials, including the named credential schema and the authentication protocols that Salesforce supports.

Available in: both Salesforce Classic (not available in all orgs) and Lightning Experience

Available in: all editions

What are Named Credentials?
Using HTTP callouts with Apex, you can integrate Salesforce with external systems via SOAP and REST APIs. Named credentials offer a declarative and secure way to store and manage the credentials needed for HTTP callouts so that Salesforce can authenticate with external APIs.
Named Credentials Schema
Named credentials and external credentials simplify and enable greater reuse of setup for secure and authenticated callouts.
Authentication Protocols for Named Credentials
Your connections between Salesforce and external systems use an authentication protocol to confirm secure communication between the two systems. Choose the authentication protocol that matches the configuration of the external system that you connect to. When you do, keep the strengths and considerations of each authentication protocol in mind.
Named Credentials Glossary
To better understand named credentials, get familiar with these common terms.

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