# Connecting an Engine

## Connecting an Engine to Workbench

Before you can run workflows, you need to connect Workbench to a workflow engine. This connection enables the complete workflow execution process.

When you launch a workflow, Workbench submits it to your connected engine. The workflow engine interprets your workflow specification and generates commands for individual tasks. These commands are then dispatched to your cloud or HPC backend, where the engine orchestrates computational resources, executes the work, and writes outputs to cloud storage.

### Supported Platforms

Workbench supports workflow execution across major cloud platforms and on-premises environments:

* Amazon Web Services ([AWS HealthOmics](https://aws.amazon.com/healthomics/resources/))
* Google Cloud Platform ([Life Sciences API](https://cloud.google.com/life-sciences/docs/reference/rest) or [DNAstack WES](https://github.com/DNAstack/cromwell-wes-service))
* Microsoft Azure ([Microsoft CoA](https://github.com/microsoft/CromwellOnAzure) or [DNAstack WES](https://github.com/DNAstack/cromwell-wes-service))
* On-Premises ([DNAstack WES](https://github.com/DNAstack/cromwell-wes-service))

{% hint style="info" %}
For detailed information about engines and cloud backends, refer to [Deploying an Engine](https://docs.omics.ai/products/introduction-to-engines-and-backends).
{% endhint %}

## Connecting Your Engine

To connect Workbench to a workflow engine, you'll need specific configuration details from your IT administrator. These details allow Workbench to properly communicate with your engine deployment.

Follow these steps to connect your engine:

1. Navigate to "Settings" in the sidebar to view your current engine configurations
2. Click "Add Engine" in the top right corner
3. Select your engine and cloud backend combination
4. Complete the configuration form with your provided details
5. Click "Save" to finalize the connection

After successful configuration, your new engine will appear in the Workflow Engines table on the Settings page.

{% hint style="info" %}
Engine configuration is typically a one-time setup process. Contact your IT administrator if you need help with configuration details.
{% endhint %}


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