> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.energyweb.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.energyweb.org/legacy-documentation/solutions-2023/open-charging-network/connect-an-ocpi-ocn-party-to-a-node.md).

# Connect an OCPI/OCN Party to a Node

![Connect to an existing OCN node](/files/XSkVBtZTAKE8qIOnVKPy)

### Overview

The most common use case of the Open Charging Network describes an [eMobility Service Provider (eMSP)](/legacy-documentation/glossary-of-terms.md#e-mobility-service-provider-esmp) or [Charge Point Operator (CPO)](/legacy-documentation/glossary-of-terms.md#charge-point-operator-cpo) connecting their backend service to an [OCN Node](/legacy-documentation/glossary-of-terms.md#open-charge-network-ocn-node). An OCN node provides an entry point into the system, *so a party must connect to an OCN node in order to participate in the network.* 

Follow these steps in order to successfully connect your own backend service. 

1. [Make your backend service OCN-ready (implement the OCPI 2.2 API and OCN Signature)](https://shareandcharge.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/OCN/pages/407207959)
2. [Select an OCN Node and enter details in OCN Registry](https://shareandcharge.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/OCN/pages/407273504/Select+an+OCN-Node+and+enter+details+in+OCN-Registry)
3. [Manage your White- and Blacklist](https://shareandcharge.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/OCN/pages/409370636/Manage+your+White-+and+Blacklist)
4. [Connect your service to an OCN Node](https://shareandcharge.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/OCN/pages/409239555/Connect+your+service+to+an+OCN-Node)

\*Note that not only MSPs and CPOs can use the Open Charging Network, but these are the most common roles.

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QieCRl8rUu4>" %}
**Tutorial on connecting a party at minute 12:29**
{% endembed %}

{% hint style="info" %}
Access the full OCN technical documentation [here](https://shareandcharge.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/OCN-Documentation-v1.1.pdf)
{% endhint %}


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