API key

Last updated Jul 17, 2026

A secret string that **authenticates your app** to an AI provider's API — like a password for your project.

#When to use

Every server-side call to OpenAI, Anthropic, etc. — loaded from environment variables, not pasted in the browser.

Never commit keys to Git, client-side JavaScript bundles, or public screenshots.

export OPENAI_API_KEY="sk-..."