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

# Introduction to Nuclei Templates

> YAML based universal language for describing exploitable vulnerabilities

<div className="p-4 border border-blue-100 dark:border-blue-900 bg-blue-50 dark:bg-blue-900/50 rounded-lg mb-4">
  Write and test Nuclei templates directly in your browser using our [template editor](https://cloud.projectdiscovery.io/templates/editor). The editor supports AI-assisted template generation, real-time validation, and immediate scanning against your targets. Need automation? Check out our [template generation API](/api-reference/templates/generate-ai-template).
</div>

## What are Nuclei Templates?

Nuclei templates are the cornerstone of the Nuclei scanning engine. Nuclei templates enable precise and rapid scanning across various protocols like TCP, DNS, HTTP, and more. They are designed to send targeted requests based on specific vulnerability checks, ensuring low-to-zero false positives and efficient scanning over large networks.

## YAML

Nuclei templates are based on the concepts of `YAML` based template files that define how the requests will be sent and processed. This allows easy extensibility capabilities to nuclei. The templates are written in `YAML` which specifies a simple human-readable format to quickly define the execution process.

## Universal Language for Vulnerabilities

Nuclei Templates offer a streamlined way to identify and communicate vulnerabilities, combining essential details like severity ratings and detection methods. This open-source, community-developed tool accelerates threat response and is widely recognized in the cybersecurity world.

<Tip>
  Learn more about nuclei templates as a universal language for exploitable vulnerabilities [on our blog](https://projectdiscovery.io/blog/the-power-of-nuclei-templates-a-universal-language-of-vulnerabilities/).
</Tip>

## Learn more

Let's dive into the world of Nuclei templates! Use the links on the left or those below to learn more.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Structure" icon="table-tree" iconType="regular" href="/templates/structure">
    Learn what makes up the structure of a nuclei template
  </Card>

  <Card title="Basic HTTP" icon="globe" iconType="solid" href="/templates/protocols/http/basic-http">
    Get started making simple HTTP requests with Nuclei
  </Card>

  <Card title="Writing your first template" icon="video" iconType="solid" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFXygQdtjyw">
    Watch a video on writing your first nuclei template!
  </Card>

  <Card title="Contributing" icon="github" iconType="solid" href="https://github.com/projectdiscovery">
    Nuclei thrives on community contributions. Submit your templates to be used by security experts everywhere!
  </Card>
</CardGroup>