> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.alterhq.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Overview

> Understand local tools and external integrations in Alter

Alter supports two integration paths:

* Local tools that act directly in your Mac apps.
* External services that connect through APIs.

## Choose the right integration type

* Use local tools when you want fast, private actions on your Mac.
* Use external integrations when you need cross-app automation.

## Local tools

Local tools run in your environment and are best for daily execution.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Free to use" icon="gift">
    Local tools are included.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Private by default" icon="shield">
    Local workflows stay on your Mac.
  </Card>

  <Card title="App control" icon="command">
    Alter can execute app actions, not only summarize data.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Offline-friendly" icon="wifi-off">
    Many local actions work without external services.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

### Enable local tools

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Tool Manager">
    In Alter, open the three-dot menu and select **Tools Manager**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enable only what you need">
    Turn on the relevant local tools for the workflow you are running.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Test with one prompt">
    Run a small prompt to confirm permissions and expected behavior.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## External integrations

External integrations connect Alter with services such as Slack, Notion, and GitHub.

* Use these when your workflow spans multiple systems.
* Enable only the services required for your current task.

## Popular workflow entry points

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Manage calendar" icon="calendar" href="/workflows/manage-calendar-with-alter">
    Plan and update your schedule from Alter.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Mail workflows" icon="mail" href="/workflows/manage-mail-with-alter">
    Draft replies and process inbox tasks.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Messages workflows" icon="message-circle" href="/workflows/send-messages-with-alter">
    Send and manage iMessages faster.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Computer Use workflow" icon="screen-share" href="/workflows/summarize-x-feed-with-computer-use">
    Extract and summarize visible UI content.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Related pages

* [Tool Manager guide](/how-to/tool-manager-guide)
* [Integrations troubleshooting](/apps-tools/integrations-troubleshooting)
* [Mail app reference](/apps-tools/mail)