Configuring Your Nightscout URL

Setting up your Nightscout URL is one of the first steps after creating your Nightscout Pro account. This guide will walk you through the process of configuring your personalized Nightscout site URL and initial settings.

What is a Nightscout URL?

Your Nightscout URL is the web address where you, your caregivers, and healthcare providers can access your glucose data. It typically follows this format:

This URL is unique to you and will be the primary way to access your Nightscout dashboard.

Configuration Steps

1. Choose a Site Name
   • Select a unique name for your Nightscout site. This will become part of your URL: https://your-chosen-name.region.nightscoutpro.com
   • Choose something memorable but not too personal (avoid using full names)The system will automatically check if your chosen name is available
   • If the name is already taken, you’ll need to choose a different one
2. Select Your Region
   • Choose the server region closest to your location. This helps optimise the performance and speed of your Nightscout site
3. Create an API Secret
   • The API Secret functions as a password for your Nightscout site. It must be secure yet memorable. You’ll need this API Secret when setting up uploaders and followers
   • Recommendations for a good API Secret:
     • Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters
     • Make it at least 12 characters long
     • Don’t use easily guessable information
4. Choose Display Units
   • Select your preferred glucose measurement units:
     • mg/dL (used in the US and some other countries)
     • mmol/L (used in most other countries)
   • This setting affects how glucose values are displayed throughout your Nightscout site
   • Ensure this matches the units you use in your other diabetes management tools
5. Create Your Nightscout Site
   • After entering all the required information, click the “Create Nightscout” button
   • The system will process your request and create your site
   • Your site will be live within approximately one minute

Important Notes

• JavaScript Requirement: Please ensure JavaScript is enabled in your browser. The site creation page uses JavaScript to validate your inputs and show real-time feedback, such as whether your chosen site name is available.
• Site Name Availability: If you receive an error indicating your chosen site name is already taken, you’ll need to select a different name. The system checks availability in real-time to help you find an available option.
• API Secret Security: Your API Secret is an important security element. Never share it publicly. When you need to give someone access to your Nightscout site, consider using authentication tokens instead of sharing your API Secret.
• Changing Settings Later: While you can modify many settings later, changing your site URL after creation is not supported. Choose your site name carefully.

After Configuration

Once your Nightscout site is created:

1. Bookmark your Nightscout URL for easy access
2. Configure your uploaders to send data to your new Nightscout site
3. Set up your profile with your diabetes management parameters
4. Share your URL (not your API Secret) with caregivers who need to view your data

Your Nightscout Pro site is now ready to use! The next steps will be to configure your profile settings and connect your data uploaders.