---
title: "Create an API key"
description: "Generate an API key from Developers settings, keep it secure, and add it to your API requests."
canonical: https://docs.ordering.co/docs/products/dashboard/settings/pro/developers/api-keys/
---

# Create an API key

Use a REST API key for operations that accept API-key authentication. The list belongs to the signed-in user. Open **Settings** with a project administrator account.

## Generate a key

1. Confirm the selected project.
2. Open **Settings** → **Apps & developers** → **API & integrations** and choose **API Keys**.
3. Select **Add API Key**. Use **Copy** to store the new value in your secret manager. The list masks the value by default. Use **Show** only when you need to view it.

![API Keys panel in a project with no keys](https://docs.ordering.co/img/docs/dashboard/settings/current/api-keys-en.webp)

## Keep your key secure

When replacing a key, update and verify the client with the replacement, then use the old key’s **Actions → Delete** and confirm. Delete a compromised key as soon as possible. Keep key values in a secret manager.

## Use your key

Use the `X-Api-Key` header only when the operation supports it. Check the operation’s security requirements in [API Reference](https://docs.ordering.co/api-reference/). MCP keys have their own setup and lifecycle in the [Ordering MCP setup guide](https://docs.ordering.co/docs/developers/mcp/).