# How to Connect

Traces offers multiple connection interfaces that can be built on top of the same REST API.

![Document image](https://archbee.imgix.net/bLFGjdFdIY6MzXs3Kd3G8/phTrl5B_C_RpOrDWwpXKF_how-to-connect.png?auto=format\&ixlib=react-9.1.1\&h=360\&w=514)

## App <a href="#nb-app" id="nb-app"></a>

Build web, mobile, backend applications and interact with our [API](/faf-api/api.md) using your favorite programming language. We are using predictable resource-oriented URLs, JSON-encoded responses, standard [HTTP response codes](https://docs.traces.cloud/api-reference#un-http-response-codes), and key-based authentication.

## VMS and NVR <a href="#ru-vms-and-nvr" id="ru-vms-and-nvr"></a>

Connections are possible through custom integration, native Traces plugins, or other means provided by the VMS/NVR manufacturers.

## SMTP gateway <a href="#mn-smtp-gateway" id="mn-smtp-gateway"></a>

The standard function of most cameras and NVRs is to send an email alert when certain types of events occur. Also known as SMTP push mail notification. Traces SMTP gateway receives an email alert, classify the source and forward the results to your system.

## EDGE Appliance <a href="#h-edge-appliance" id="h-edge-appliance"></a>

Similar to VMS/NVR integration there are multiple means of connecting your cameras to Traces API through EDGE Appliance.&#x20;

{% hint style="success" %}

### What option is right for you?

Talk to our Customer Success Engineers to get the most out of our technology or refer to this quick guide to learn more about every option.
{% endhint %}


---

# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.traces.cloud/faf-api/how-to-connect.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.