> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.pump.co/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.pump.co/getting-started/the-hitchhikers-guide-to-pump.md).

# The Hitchhiker's Guide to Pump

Welcome! In this guide, we'll walk you through the basics of setting up and using Pump.

***

\
Joining Pump is a breeze - it only takes 10 minutes to sign up and start saving, with no long-term commitment. You’re free to leave anytime, even on the same day 🤓\
\
1\. Self-Serve Option: scroll down for more directions on how to get started\
2\. [Speak with a Human](https://www.pump.co/schedule-a-demo)

***

### Step 1: Create a Pump Account 

You need a Pump account to see how much you can save. Sign up for an account [**here**](https://app.pump.co/).

<figure><img src="/files/fgtwz7P7C8MxeWIUm9Gf" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Step 2: Link a Cloud Provider

Link your Pump account to AWS, GCP, or Azure. Once your first cloud account is linked,  you'll be able to link multiple accounts.

### Step 3: Savings Estimate

See how much you could save with Pump. Below is an example of a Pump estimate.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/dzJ8DxljkXiWqQKW33lw" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Step 4: Join Pump (and start optimizing!)

Join Pump and begin optimizing cloud costs for free.

### Step 5: Choose a Mode *(Manual or Autopilot)*

Go to the [**recommendations tab**](https://app.pump.co/recommendations) and choose your mode of preference for Pump on the top right.

<figure><img src="/files/uKf555pCztq96LQ9xN4b" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

**🤖 Autopilot**: We handle 100% of your FinOps decisions from the day you join our organization to the day the [asteroid hits](https://www.wwlp.com/massappeal/sponsored-content/will-an-asteroid-hit-earth-in-2032/). We surface recommendations and execute after a few days.

**🎛️ Manual:** Get recommendations from the *Pumps Risk Engine* on our dashboard and make choices based on that. At the end of the day, the buck stops with you, and we won't execute anything without your approval.

### Step 6: Sit back and relax!

Learn [**How Pump has saved companies on their cloud bills**](/getting-started/real-customers-real-success-stories.md).

<figure><img src="/files/7lEYSGDnSHb8ps4dGmtU" alt=""><figcaption><p>Real Screenshot from a Customers Savings Report</p></figcaption></figure>

## Next Steps

Now you have learned the basics of making a Pump account. Check out how Pump works to learn what we can do to optimize your cloud!

<br>


---

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