What is API key management?
API key management, then, is the process through which an organization manages, tracks, and maintains all of the API keys it uses. Since API keys are used to verify and regulate how an API is being used, they can also be used to ensure API security. That’s why organizations need to have an API key management strategy.
Where should I store my API keys?
Instead of embedding your API keys in your applications, store them in environment variables or in files outside of your application’s source tree. Do not store API keys in files inside your application’s source tree.
Where should I store my API key and secret?
Store API keys or signing secrets in files outside of your application’s source tree. If you store API keys or any other private information in files, keep the files outside your application’s source tree to keep your keys out of your source code control system.
How long should API keys be?
A key should be a random 128-bit string (or 192, or 256 if you need additional security). If you need to generate a key from a passphrase, use a key expansion function, not an hash just because the length is the same.
Should API keys be shared?
When you use API keys in your Google Cloud Platform (GCP) applications, take care to keep them secure. Publicly exposing your credentials can result in your account being compromised, which could lead to unexpected charges on your account.
Are API keys safe?
API keys are generally not considered secure; they are typically accessible to clients, making it easy for someone to steal an API key. Once the key is stolen, it has no expiration, so it may be used indefinitely, unless the project owner revokes or regenerates the key.
How do I setup an API key?
Setting up API keys
- Go to the API Console.
- From the projects list, select a project or create a new one.
- If the APIs & services page isn’t already open, open the left side menu and select APIs & services.
- On the left, choose Credentials.
- Click Create credentials and then select API key.
What is API key authentication?
API keys are for projects, authentication is for users API keys identify the calling project — the application or site — making the call to an API. Authentication tokens identify a user — the person — that is using the app or site.
What is the most secure method to transmit an API key?
HMAC Authentication is common for securing public APIs whereas Digital Signature is suitable for server-to-server two way communication. OAuth on the other hand is useful when you need to restrict parts of your API to authenticated users only.
Should API keys be encrypted?
1 Answer. API keys are normally used for identification and authentication, not encryption. The client includes them in requests, so the server can figure out which client is making the request and be confident the call is really coming from that client.
