# Add a Role

This article explains how to create a new custom role in the MSP Portal. Roles are always created **within a specific MSP node** and only apply to that node.

:::check Required Permissions
Only users with the **Add Roles** permission can create new roles
:::

:::note[]
Roles are **scoped to the node** they are created in. Roles created in a Parent node do not automatically apply to Child nodes unless the cascade permission is enabled. Permission changes apply immediately.
:::

# Add a Role
To create a custom role and define its permissions within the MSP Portal, follow the steps below:
<Tabs>
  <Tab title="MSP Portal">
    <Steps>
      <Step>
        Sign in to the **[WatchDog MSP Portal](https://app.watchdogsecurity.io/)**
      </Step>
      <Step>
        From the account context switcher, select the MSP Portal
      </Step>
      <Step>
        From the Left Hand Navigation Menu, select **Users**
      </Step>
      <Step>
        Click **Add → Add Role**.
      </Step> 
       <Step>
        (Optional) Under **Node,** select the node the role belongs under
      </Step>
       <Step>
        Enter a **Role Name**.
      </Step>
       <Step>
        Select the permissions to assign to the role.
:::tip[]
To learn about the available permission keys within the MSP Portal, review the permission matrix **[here](/role-management#msp-portal-permissions)**
:::
      </Step>
       <Step>
        Click **Create Role**.
      </Step>
    </Steps>
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

The role is created immediately and is available for assignment within the selected node.