Overview
When your IDE connects to AlphaTales for the first time, it opens a secure login page in your browser. You verify your identity with your email and a one-time code, and then you are redirected back to your IDE. This guide explains each step of the process.
The Authentication Flow
Step 1: IDE Initiates Connection
When you first use an AlphaTales tool in your IDE (or when your session has expired), the IDE opens a browser window pointing to the AlphaTales authorization page. The page displays "Connect your IDE" and asks you to sign in.
Step 2: Enter Your Email
On the authorization page, enter the email address associated with your AlphaTales account. Click Continue to proceed.
Warning: You must use the same email address you use to log in to AlphaTales on the web. If you enter a different email, authentication will fail.
Step 3: Enter the Verification Code
AlphaTales sends a 6-digit verification code to your email inbox. Enter this code on the verification screen. The code expires after a few minutes, so enter it promptly.
If you did not receive the code:
- Check your spam or junk folder.
- Click Didn't get the code? Resend to request a new one.
- Wait at least 60 seconds between resend requests.
Step 4: Redirect Back to Your IDE
After entering the correct code, you see a "Successfully Authenticated!" confirmation. You are automatically redirected back to your IDE within a few seconds. Your IDE now has a valid session and can call AlphaTales tools.
Session Duration and Re-Authentication
Your authentication session lasts for a limited period. When it expires:
- Your IDE automatically prompts the login flow again.
- You go through the same email-and-code verification steps.
- No data is lost; you simply re-authorize the connection.
Tip: If you are prompted to re-authenticate frequently, check that your system clock is accurate. Time drift can cause tokens to expire earlier than expected.
Security Considerations
- No passwords are stored in your IDE. The authentication uses a secure token exchange.
- Only authorize from your own device. The authorization page warns: "Only authorize if you initiated this request."
- Tokens are scoped to your account. Your IDE can only access projects and tasks that your AlphaTales account has permission to view.
- Use a different email link if you need to switch accounts during the verification step.
Troubleshooting
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Browser does not open | Copy the authorization URL from your IDE output and paste it into a browser manually. |
| Code is invalid or expired | Click "Resend" to get a fresh code. Codes expire after a few minutes. |
| "No account found" error | Make sure you have an AlphaTales account with the email you entered. Sign up at alphatales.io if needed. |
| Redirect fails after verification | Check that your IDE is still running and the MCP server is active. Restart the IDE and try again. |
Next Steps
Once authenticated, your IDE is ready to use AlphaTales tools. See the MCP Tools Reference for a complete list of what you can do.