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## Add Vendor
:::info[]
You can select vendors from a predefined list or create a custom vendor if it does not exist.
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Sign in to the [**WatchDog Security Platform**](app.watchdogsecurity.io).
Navigate to **Vendor Management** from the left-hand menu.
Click the **+ Add Vendor** button to open the vendor creation form.
Choose a vendor from the **Name** dropdown or enter a custom vendor name.
Enter the vendor **Website** when creating a custom vendor.
Select an **Owner** from your employee directory.
Enter **Account Manager Name** and **Account Manager Email** if applicable.
Choose **Accessed Data Types** to define vendor risk classification.
Click **Add Vendor** to create the vendor.
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## What Happens Next
The vendor is created and appears in the Vendor Management dashboard.The assigned owner can manage documents, assessments, and vendor details.Vendor risk classification is applied based on selected data types.Security monitoring begins using the vendor website if provided.
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## Troubleshooting
If a vendor cannot be added:
- Ensure you have the **Account Owner** or **Security Admin** role
- Verify all required fields such as **Name**, **Owner**, and **Accessed Data Types** are completed
- For custom vendors, ensure a valid **Website** is provided
If the vendor is not available:
- Enter the vendor name manually in the **Name** field
- Provide a valid **Website** to create a custom vendor
- Ensure there are no typos when searching
If you cannot proceed:
- Ensure at least one **Accessed Data Type** is selected
- Data types are required to determine vendor risk level