Glossary

API keys serve as a fundamental method of authentication and authorization for applications interacting with APIs. These unique strings, typically alphanumeric, act as a form of credential that an application includes in its requests to verify its identity and access privileges. They help regulate API usage, control access, and prevent unauthorized requests, making them an essential security measure in software development.

When a developer or organization registers for an API, they are usually issued an API key, which must be included in subsequent requests. The API server then checks the key against its records to determine whether the request should be allowed, and in some cases, what level of access the requester has. API keys can be used to track usage, enforce rate limits, and identify who is making requests to an API.

Despite their utility, API keys alone do not provide comprehensive security. Unlike authentication methods such as OAuth or mutual TLS, API keys are often static and can be exposed if not properly managed. Hardcoding API keys in source code, embedding them in public repositories, or sharing them improperly increases the risk of leaks, which attackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or services.

To enhance security, organizations should follow best practices such as storing API keys in a secrets manager, rotating keys periodically, and implementing IP restrictions or scopes that limit what each key can do. Additionally, logging and monitoring API activity can help detect unauthorized access and mitigate potential threats.