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

# Use Mutual TLS (mTLS) to Authenticate to StreamNative Cloud

<Note title="Note">
  mTLS authentication is currently in Private Preview and is only available for **BYOC Pro** clusters using the MQTT protocol. If you are interested in this feature, please join our [Early Access Program](https://hs.streamnative.io/early-access-program-for-streamnative).
</Note>

You can use mutual TLS (mTLS) for X.509 client certificate authentication and granular access control to **BYOC Pro** clusters.

## Key benefits

* **Two-way authentication**: Both the client and server must verify each other's identity using X.509 certificates, providing stronger security than one-way TLS.
* **Certificate-based access**: Access to StreamNative Cloud resources requires valid X.509 certificates, making unauthorized access more difficult.
* **Secure data transmission**: TLS encryption protects data in transit from tampering and interception.
* **Fine-grained control**: Manage access at a granular level by issuing certificates to specific clients and applications.
* **Regulatory compliance**: Meet industry security standards and compliance requirements with strong authentication.
* **Alternative to passwords**: Reduce security risks by using certificates instead of traditional username/password authentication.

## How to access this feature

Currently, this feature is only available for **BYOC Pro** clusters using the MQTT protocol. If you are interested in this feature, please join our [Early Access Program](https://hs.streamnative.io/early-access-program-for-streamnative).
