This is the recommended authentication method for organizations with 500+ repositories.
Install a GitHub App
Follow the steps below to create and configure your own GitHub App.1
Navigate to GitHub Apps
Navigate to your Organization Settings > Developer settings > GitHub Apps.
2
Click New GitHub App
Click the New GitHub App button
3
Configure the app
Configure the app with the following settings:
- GitHub App name: Choose a unique name (e.g.,
YourOrg-OpenHound) - Homepage URL: Your organization’s URL
- Webhook: Uncheck “Active” (not needed for collection)
4
Create the app
Click Create GitHub App to create the app with the specified settings and permissions.
5
Generate a private key
Scroll down and click Generate a private key - save the downloaded
.pem file securely. Note the App ID and Client ID displayed on the app settings page.6
Install the app
Click Install App in the left sidebar to install the app to your organization.
Get the Installation Details
- Navigate to your Organization Settings > Third-party Access > GitHub Apps.
- Find the app you just created and click Configure.
- The numeric value in the URL is the App Installation ID.
- Click App settings to access the Client ID and App ID.
Security Considerations
- Store the
.pemprivate key securely and never commit it to version control. - Rotate keys periodically and revoke old ones.
- Only install the app on organizations that require collection.
- Periodically verify the app has only the minimum required permissions.