> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.expel.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.expel.io/connect-your-technology/expel-assembler.md).

# Expel Assembler

The first steps in leveraging an assembler as part of an Expel integration are to add a new assembler in Workbench and configure your firewall. Then you can deploy the virtual machine in a supported vendor environment, and continue on with the integration.

{% hint style="warning" %}
An assembler is only needed if your security device lives on an internal, private network where a direct external connection cannot be established. [Learn more about the Expel Assembler](/connect-your-technology/expel-assembler/about-the-expel-assembler.md).
{% endhint %}

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### [Add a New Assembler](/connect-your-technology/expel-assembler/add-a-new-assembler.md)

{% endstep %}

{% step %}

### [Deploy the Virtual Machine](/connect-your-technology/expel-assembler/deploy-the-virtual-machine.md)

{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}


---

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