An endpoint is an addressable resource in Port OS. A connected light, thermostat, or simulator appears as an endpoint that your application can discover and control.

## Identity and names

The endpoint ID is the stable address returned by discovery. Copy the full ID when you send a request. A display name helps a person select a device, but names can repeat or change.

## Interfaces and routes

Interfaces describe the endpoint's supported capabilities, messages and attributes. A route connects an endpoint to a provider. More than one route can contribute to an endpoint. Inspect the available interface before sending a command.

## State and availability

Attributes report observed state. An unavailable endpoint may still appear in discovery, but control or state reads can fail until its provider reconnects. A successful command dispatch does not establish the physical result.

Start with [Find connected devices](/docs/user-guides/how-to-find-connected-devices/) or the [Quick start](/docs/getting-started/).