> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://allhandsai-docs-686-repository-boundaries.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Backends

> Understand and manage Agent Canvas backends.

A **backend** provides [Agent Server](/sdk/guides/agent-server/overview#what-is-a-remote-agent-server) and, when automations are enabled, Automation Server. Agent Server runs conversations and tools in a workspace: the folder, mounted project directory, container, or cloud sandbox where the agent reads and writes files. Automation Server manages schedules, events, and run lifecycle. Agent Canvas connects to these services and displays the state of whichever backend is selected.

## Connecting to a Backend

Any Agent Canvas frontend can connect to any Agent Canvas backend. Use the backend switcher in the UI to open **Manage Backends**, where you can add, edit, or remove entries. Each entry stores a display name, host URL, and an API key for authentication.

Settings, LLM configuration, MCP servers, and automations are all scoped to the active backend — switching backends switches all of these.

## Recommended Setups

| Setup                   | When to use                                                                                | How                                                                                                                                                                                                            |
| ----------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Default local**       | Quick local work on your machine                                                           | Run `agent-canvas`—a local backend is created automatically.                                                                                                                                                   |
| **Remote Agent Server** | An Agent Server on another machine or in a separate local container                        | Add its host URL and API key in `Manage Backends`. See [Remote Backend](/openhands/usage/agent-canvas/backend-setup/remote).                                                                                   |
| **Self-hosted VM**      | Always-on server, more powerful hardware, team-shared access, or a full self-hosted Canvas | Run `agent-canvas --backend-only --public` for backend-only mode, or `agent-canvas --public` for the full UI and backend. See [VM / Self-Hosted Installation](/openhands/usage/agent-canvas/backend-setup/vm). |
| **Cloud or Enterprise** | Managed backend and sandbox infrastructure                                                 | Connect from `Manage Backends`. See [Cloud Backend](/openhands/usage/agent-canvas/backend-setup/cloud).                                                                                                        |