> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ownchat.app/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ownchat.app/developer/api-keys.md).

# API Keys

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The **API Keys** section allows developers to generate and manage secure API keys for integrating external systems with Ownchat.

API keys act as authentication credentials that allow third-party applications, services, or custom workflows to securely interact with the Ownchat platform through APIs.

Using API keys, developers can automate operations such as retrieving data, triggering actions, updating records, and integrating external applications with Ownchat.

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### Navigating to API Keys &#x20;

Follow the steps below to access the API Keys section:

1. Log in to **Ownchat**.
2. Go to **Settings** from the left sidebar.
3. Scroll to the **Developer** section.
4. Click **API Keys**.

You will be redirected to the **API Keys management dashboard**, where you can create and manage API keys.

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### API Keys Dashboard Overview &#x20;

The API Keys dashboard displays all the API keys that have been created in the system.

Each API key entry contains:

* **API Key Name** – Identifier for the API key.
* **Access Scope** – Permissions associated with the key.
* **Status** – Shows whether the key is active or inactive.
* **Created Date** – Displays when the API key was generated.
* **Actions** – Options to edit or delete the key.

This dashboard allows administrators and developers to monitor and manage API access effectively.

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### Creating a New API Key &#x20;

To generate a new API key:

1. Navigate to the **API Keys** page.
2. Click **Create API Key** located in the top-right corner.
3. Enter the required key details.
4. Configure the required access permissions.
5. Save the configuration.

Once created, the API key can be used for authentication when making API requests to Ownchat services.

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### Managing API Keys &#x20;

Users can manage API keys directly from the API Keys dashboard.

Available actions include:

**Edit API Key** &#x20;

Modify the API key configuration or update permissions.

**Delete API Key** &#x20;

Remove an API key if it is no longer required.

**View Status**&#x20;

Check whether the API key is currently **Active** or **Inactive**.

These controls help maintain secure and organized API integrations.

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### Best Practices for Using API Keys &#x20;

To maintain system security and prevent unauthorized access, follow these best practices:

* Keep API keys confidential.
* Do not expose API keys in public code repositories.
* Use separate API keys for different integrations.
* Revoke or delete unused API keys.
* Regularly monitor API key usage.

Following these practices ensures safe and secure integrations with Ownchat.

***

### Summary &#x20;

The API Keys feature allows developers to securely connect external systems with Ownchat. By creating and managing API keys, businesses can enable automated integrations while maintaining secure API access.

Proper management of API keys helps ensure reliable and secure communication between Ownchat and external applications.