How Customer Account Creation Works with Invitation and Free Sign-Up in the Website Module 

Odoo 18 enables customers to access their accounts through the website using two main methods:

 1. Free Sign Up (Self Registration)
 2. On Invitation 

Both options are handled through the Website Module and provide access to      the customer portal. 

Type 1 :  Free Sign Up (Self Registration)
 
How It Works
Customers can register themselves directly from the website.
   * Go to Website Module> settings 
   * Enable Customer Account / Free Sign Up

* Ensure Login & Signup page is available
Flow
  * Customer visits the website
  * Clicks Login → Sign Up
  * Enters Name, Email and Password 

  * Account is created instantly

Type 2:  On Invitation 

Admin enables the option
    * Admin goes to Website/User Settings
    * Selects “On Invitation” registration mode

Step 1: Public signup is blocked
  * Website signup form is still visible (or hidden based on config)
  * But users cannot create an account directly

Step 2: Admin sends invitation
    * Admin enters user email (or contact)
    * System sends an invitation email/link

Step 3: User receives invitation
   * User clicks the invitation link
   * System verifies the invitation token

Use Case:
Best suited for B2B businesses where access needs to be controlled.

Conclusion

In Odoo 18, customer account handling through the Website Module is flexible and user-friendly.
     * Use Invitation for secure, restricted access
     * Use Free Sign Up for easy and quick customer onboarding

Choose the method based on your business needs and website type.