# Become a RIPE Atlas Probe Host
Hosting a RIPE Atlas probe is easy. Create a RIPE NCC Access account and apply for a probe - we'll evaluate your request to determine whether the RIPE Atlas network would benefit from hosting a probe, depending on your location, and let you know if your application has been approved. If your application is approved, we'll send you a probe. Then you just need to register it online and plug it in. Your probe will automatically start performing measurements and you'll start earning credits you can use to perform your own customised measurements.
# 1. Create a RIPE NCC Access account
If you don't already have a RIPE NCC Access account, please create one (opens new window). By doing so, you'll become a member of the RIPE Atlas community and will be able to apply for a probe.
*If you are a RIPE NCC member, please make sure you log in to your RIPE NCC Access account using your membership account details before applying for your probe.
# 2. Apply for a probe
You can apply online (opens new window) for your own RIPE Atlas probe. We'll evaluate your request and, if it is approved, we'll send you a probe by post at no charge. Note that there are RIPE Atlas Service Terms and Conditions (opens new window) for hosting a probe.
If you've already received a RIPE Atlas probe from a RIPE Atlas ambassador (opens new window) or sponsor (opens new window), skip ahead to Step 3 below.
# 3. Register your probe
Once you receive your probe, you'll need to register your probe (opens new window) so we can keep track of it within the RIPE Atlas infrastructure.
# 4. Plug in the probe
Once you've registered your probe, you just need to plug it in.
- Use a UTP cable to connect your probe to an Ethernet port on your home router, switch, etc.
- Use a USB power outlet to power the probe. In many cases there's one on your switch/router. You can also use a USB charger to connect the probe to a power supply
- In most networks, the probe will be able to get an IP address with DHCP and nothing further needs to be done to connect the probe. If you do not have a DHCP server already, you can configure DHCP or configure a static IP address (static configuration is necessary for an IPv6-only network)
That's it! It may take a few hours for the probe to connect to the RIPE Atlas infrastructure. Once it does, you will see information about your probe when you log in to the RIPE Atlas website.