# Plugins & Behaviors 

```{toctree}
:caption: Plugins
:glob:
:hidden:

plugins/*
```

The powerGateServer API offers a rich platform for developing intelligent plugins.\
Their main purpose is to handle the communication between different Erp-Systems and powerGate Server.

```{image} /img/utilities.png
:align: right
:width: 150px
```

## How to create Plugins

If you are developing a powerGateServer plugin or if you want to get started,  
take a look at [powerGateServer plugin development documentation](</plugins/creating_a_custom_plugin>).

A basic Visual Studio *template* for creating a powerGateServer Plugin can be download [here](<plugins/creating_a_custom_plugin:visual studio template>).

## How to install Plugins

The plugins have to be installed manually by copying them in the powerGateServer Plugin Folder (*C:\\ProgramData\\coolOrange\\powerGateServer\\Plugins*).\
You can use the Plugin Shortcut in the StartMenu to quickly get to the Plugin folder.

## How to install Behaviors

Behaviors extend or change the runtime behavior of powerGateServer and need to be placed in the powerGateServer install directory (usually *C:\\Program Files\\coolOrange\\powerGateServer*).