# Adding Hosts Manually

**Example URL:** <https://pentest.ws/e/{engagement.id}/host/add>

Hosts are the backbone of every engagement. In PenTest.WS, a *host* represents an IP address or hostname you are assessing, and each host becomes the anchor point for associated ports, services, and findings. Adding hosts manually gives you direct control over which assets are in scope and ensures your engagement stays tightly aligned to its objectives.

From the engagement sidebar, click **+ Hosts** at the top or bottom to open the form:

![Top of the Sidebar](/files/sUrSIQ5QMHxPhslFB5Vy)

![Bottom of the Sidebar](/files/q0uzvkSJjOMkO2NPtE1f)

![Add Hosts](/files/kC6r46tdD33YWjPXWeum)

#### Adding Hosts

* Enter one or more **IP addresses, hostnames, or CIDR ranges** (one per line).
* Optionally assign a **label**, **type**, and **operating system** to help categorize assets.
* Click **Add Hosts** to save.

⚠️ Each host must be unique — you cannot add multiple host objects with the same IP or hostname. Once added, the new hosts appear in the sidebar for quick navigation.

The new Host objects will appear at the top of the Sidebar.

## Using Host Scan Templates

You can save time with **Host Scan Templates**. Templates allow you to predefine commands (e.g., Nmap ping sweeps) for enumerating live hosts. Use the `%subnet%` variable in your template to target specific ranges.

Learn more at [Port Scan Templates](/getting-started/port-scan-templates.md)

## Tier Availability

**Adding Hosts Manually** is available on all tiers.


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# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.pentest.ws/getting-started/adding-hosts-manually.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.