---
title: Enable headless multi-channel content in CMS
slug: cms-13/docs/enable-headless-content
docTags: 
createdAt: 2026-07-30T20:22:03.890Z
---

A multi-channel Optimizely Content Management System (CMS) separates the back-end content management from the front-end presentation layer. This is also known as a *decoupled architecture* because the functions are separated.

A traditional *coupled architecture* binds the back-end CMS and the front-end presentation layer together, and content is managed, stored, and delivered in the same system.

The back-end CMS manages server, application, and database information and controls rules, integration, and page connections. The *presentation layer* displays on any device with an internet connection (such as a smartwatch, cell phone, tablet, and display screen).

A *headless architecture* is a content-only data source without a presentation layer. In practice, headless is another form of decoupled architecture, but instead of the CMS pushing artifacts to the front end, the front end pulls content from the CMS.

Optimizely Content Management System (CMS) offers the following multi-channel content solutions: 

- a decoupled architecture that serves only headless content 
- a hybrid architecture that manages coupled content and headless content

Each solution serves multi-channel content that integrates with digital experiences on web applications and smart devices outside the CMS platform.

## Enable headless-only mode

Multi-channel (headless) content is turned off by default.

To enable headless-only mode, set `HeadlessModeOptions.HeadlessModeEnabled` to `true`. When enabled, the **Multi-Channel Content** view displays and hides the **Navigation** view (Pages, Sites, Tasks, Project Items) and the **Assets** view (Blocks, Media).

Configure headless-only mode programmatically or using `appSettings.json`.

### Configure headless-only mode programmatically

```csharp
public void ConfigureServices(IServiceCollection services) {
  services.Configure<HeadlessModeOptions>(o => o.HeadlessModeEnabled = true);
}
```

### Configure headless-only mode with appSettings.json

```json
{
  "Optimizely" : {
    "CmsUI" : {
      "HeadlessMode" : {
         "HeadlessModeEnabled" : true
      }
    }
  }
}
```