docs/source/polars-cloud/explain/service-accounts.md
Service accounts function as programmatic identities that enable secure machine-to-machine communication for remote data processing workflows. These accounts facilitate automated processes (typically in production environments) without requiring interactive login sessions.
In the workspace settings page, navigate to the Service Accounts section. Here, you can create and manage service accounts associated with your workspace.
To create a new Service Account:
!!! info "Client ID and Secret visible once"
If you lose the Client ID or Client Secret, you will need to generate a new service account.
To authenticate using a Service Account, you must set environment variables. The following variables should be defined using the credentials provided when the service account was created:
export POLARS_CLOUD_CLIENT_ID="CLIENT_ID_HERE"
export POLARS_CLOUD_CLIENT_SECRET="CLIENT_SECRET_HERE"
Once the environment variables are set, you do not need to log in to Polars Cloud manually. Your process will automatically connect to the workspace.
When a service account is no longer needed, it is recommended to revoke its access. Keep in mind that deleting a service account is irreversible, and any processes or applications relying on this account will lose access immediately.