# Accessing a Private Collection

[Explorer](https://docs.omics.ai/products/explorer) allows researchers to access both registered and controlled data collections through [Passport](https://docs.omics.ai/products/passport) authentication. This guide explains how to access each type of collection.

## Registered Access Collections

To access a registered collection:

1. Click on a registered collection from Explorer
2. Click "Log in with Passport" on the collection overview page
3. Sign in using your preferred authentication method
4. Once authenticated, you'll have immediate access to the collection's data

## Controlled Access Collections

For collections requiring approval:

1. Navigate to the controlled collection in Explorer
2. Click "Request Access" on the collection overview page
3. Complete the request form with:
   * Your full name
   * Email address
   * Optional note explaining your request purpose
4. Submit your request and await email notification of approval

## After Approval

Once your access request is approved:

1. Return to the collection in Explorer
2. Sign in with your Passport account
3. Access the collection's data, including tables and metadata

{% hint style="info" %}
Collections may have different data access requirements based on their sensitivity and usage policies. Contact collection administrators for specific access questions.
{% endhint %}