How to Connect Nightscout to a Secondary Glucose Display

Help → CGM Connections → Nightscout

Safety note: Secondary displays are supplemental. Always rely on your primary CGM app/device for treatment decisions and alerts.

Using Glucose Display?

Nightscout support for Glucose Display is coming soon. This guide is still helpful for any secondary CGM display. Want updates? Contact us.

Last updated: Feb 2026

Quick checklist (top gotchas)

  • Nightscout site loads in a browser.
  • Correct URL (base or /api/v1 as required).
  • API secret/token has read permissions.
  • Device network can reach the Nightscout host.
  • Device time/timezone are correct.

What you need

  • Your Nightscout site URL (the one you can open in a browser).
  • Either API Secret or API Token (if your client supports it).

Step-by-step setup

  1. Copy your Nightscout base URL. Example: https://your-site.example.com
  2. Enter Nightscout credentials in your secondary display/app. Nightscout URL + API Secret or API Token.
  3. Verify data appears. If no data appears, test in a browser. Some clients require the REST endpoint shape (often .../api/v1).

Troubleshooting (most common issues)

  • 401/403 unauthorized: wrong API Secret/token or Nightscout security settings changed.
  • No data: wrong URL shape or the site is not reachable from the device/network.
  • Intermittent failures: hosting uptime, rate limits, or device network issues.

See the Troubleshooting hub for cross-provider fixes.

FAQ

Is API Secret the “password”?
For many Nightscout setups, yes—API Secret functions like an API credential.

Still stuck? We can help.

Contact support at our support page and include:

  • CGM source (Nightscout)
  • Symptom (401/403, no data, intermittent)
  • Nightscout URL and whether /api/v1 was tried
  • Network type (home Wi‑Fi, school Wi‑Fi, cellular hotspot)
  • Screenshot (if possible)

Disclaimer

This content is educational and for device setup support. It’s not medical advice. Always follow your CGM manufacturer’s instructions and rely on primary CGM alerts and guidance for treatment decisions.