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Sign into Pinepods

Pinepods provides a comprehensive sign-in experience that includes user authentication, customizable landing pages, and seamless integration with your preferred podcast listening workflow. The system supports multiple authentication methods and personalized start page preferences.

Overview

The Pinepods sign-in system consists of several key components:

  • User Authentication: Secure login with username and password
  • Multi-Factor Authentication: Optional TOTP-based security enhancement
  • Password Reset: Self-service password recovery via email as long as you setup email options
  • Start Page Configuration: Customizable landing page after login
  • Session Management: Persistent login sessions across devices

Standard Login Process

Basic Authentication

Step 1: Enter Credentials

  1. Username: Type your assigned or chosen username
  2. Password: Enter your account password
  3. Verify Input: Ensure credentials are entered correctly
  4. Submit: Click the "Sign In" button to authenticate

Step 2: System Verification

  1. Credential Check: Pinepods verifies your username and password
  2. Account Status: System confirms your account is active
  3. Authentication Success: Successful login proceeds to your start page
  4. Error Handling: Invalid credentials display appropriate error messages

Step 3: Post-Login Actions

  1. Session Creation: Pinepods establishes your user session
  2. Preferences Loading: System loads your personal settings and preferences
  3. Start Page Navigation: Automatic redirect to your configured start page

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

MFA-Enhanced Login Process

If you've enabled MFA on your account, the login process includes an additional security step:

Standard Login First

  1. Username and Password: Complete the normal credential entry
  2. Initial Verification: Pinepods validates your basic credentials
  3. MFA Prompt: System requests your authenticator code

MFA Code Entry

  1. Authenticator App: Open your TOTP authenticator app (Google Authenticator, Authy, etc.)
  2. Locate Code: Find the 6-digit code for your Pinepods account
  3. Enter Code: Input the current code in the MFA prompt
  4. Time Sensitivity: Codes expire every 30 seconds, so enter promptly
  5. Complete Login: Successful MFA verification completes the login process

MFA Troubleshooting

  • Expired Codes: Wait for a new code if the current one has expired
  • Time Sync: Ensure your device's clock is accurate for proper code generation
  • Code Accuracy: Double-check that you're entering the code correctly
  • App Issues: Verify you're using the code from the correct account in your authenticator

Password Recovery

Forgot Password Process

If you've forgotten your password, Pinepods provides a self-service recovery option as long as you set it up in the admin area of settings:

Initiating Password Reset

  1. Forgot Password Link: Click "Forgot Password?" on the login page
  2. Account Information: Enter your username and associated email address
  3. Reset Request: Submit the password reset request
  4. Email Verification: Check your email for the reset code

Completing Password Reset

  1. Email Code: Locate the password reset code in your email
  2. Return to Interface: The reset modal will appear after submitting the request
  3. New Password: Enter your desired new password
  4. Reset Code: Input the code from your email
  5. Submit Changes: Complete the password reset process
  6. Login: Use your new password to log into Pinepods

Password Reset Requirements

  • Valid Email: Your account must have a valid email address configured
  • Email Configuration: Administrators must have configured email settings on the server
  • Code Expiration: Reset codes expire after a certain time for security
  • Single Use: Each reset code can only be used once

User Self-Registration

Self-Service Account Creation

If enabled by administrators, new users can create their own accounts:

Account Creation Process

  1. Create New User: Click the "Create New User" button (if visible)
  2. User Information: Provide required account details:
    • Username: Choose a unique username for your account
    • Password: Create a secure password
    • Email Address: Provide a valid email for account recovery
    • Full Name: Enter your display name
  3. Account Validation: System verifies the provided information
  4. Account Creation: Successful validation creates your new account

Self-Registration Requirements

  • Administrator Permission: Feature must be enabled by server administrators
  • Unique Username: Chosen username must not already exist
  • Valid Email: Email address must be properly formatted and accessible

Start Page Configuration

Customizing Your Landing Page

Pinepods allows you to configure which page you see immediately after logging in in the settings of your account:

Available Start Page Options

  • Home: Dashboard view with recent activity and quick access features
  • Feed: Your personalized episode feed with latest content
  • Podcasts: Library view of all your subscribed podcasts
  • Queue: Your listening queue with planned episodes
  • Saved: Collection of bookmarked episodes
  • Downloads: Episodes downloaded to the server

Setting Your Start Page

  1. Navigate to Settings: Access your user settings after logging in
  2. Start Page Options: Find the start page configuration section
  3. Select Preference: Choose your preferred landing page
  4. Save Settings: Apply your start page preference
  5. Next Login: Your choice takes effect on subsequent logins

Session Management

Login Session Features

  • Persistent Sessions: Stay logged in across browser sessions
  • Multiple Devices: Use the same account on different devices simultaneously
  • Cross-Platform: Sessions work across web, mobile, and desktop clients

Troubleshooting Login Issues

Email Issues (Password Reset)

  • Email Configuration: Verify your account has the correct email address
  • Spam Folder: Check spam/junk folders for password reset emails
  • Email Delivery: Allow time for email delivery
  • Administrator Help: Contact administrators if email issues persist

MFA Problems

  • Clock Synchronization: Ensure your device's time is accurate
  • Code Generation: Verify your authenticator app is generating codes
  • Setup Verification: Confirm MFA was set up correctly
  • Recovery Options: Contact administrators if locked out due to MFA issues

Browser and Technical Issues

Browser Compatibility

  • Supported Browsers: Use current versions of major browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge)
  • JavaScript: Ensure JavaScript is enabled in your browser
  • Cookies: Enable cookies for the Pinepods domain
  • Cache Issues: Clear browser cache if experiencing persistent problems