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

# API Key

## Overview

EyePop uses a standard OAuth system to manage access to your Pops.

In essence, OAuth is a token exchange and management protocol that allows you to create public temporary keys for your authenticated users. Depending on your Pop use case, a temporary key may or may not be necessary so let's explore the main use cases.

The primary Pop use cases are as follows:

1. **Server to Server:** You or a server talks directly to your Pop.
2. **Server to Client:** Your clients talks directly to your Pop - temporary keys are required.

## Quick Start

1. **Go to your Dashboard**

   1. Once you're logged in, navigate to your [EyePop Dashboard](https://dashboard.eyepop.ai/) and click on the hamburger icon in the upper right hand corner.

   <figure><img src="/files/RS3qXcgRJzZjVuYPLfr8" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
2. **Select “API Keys”**

   1. This will take you to a menu of all the API Keys you have generated for your account and will also allow you to create and delete keys.

   <figure><img src="/files/qqva26ZijOMpXccdQOu1" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
3. **Create API Key**

   1. Select the "Create API Key" button to create a new key. Give your key a memorable name (e.g., “Starter Integration”, “My App Key”, etc.) and choose an expiration date for the key by clicking on the drop down arrow. Finally, click **"Create"**!

   <div align="right" data-full-width="false"><figure><img src="/files/aKNycY3vHPPJ0NmAcCKL" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

**Copy and Save Your Key**

4. Once your key is generated, **copy it immediately**—you won’t be able to view it again later.

   <figure><img src="/files/NiuKzCrXNQ5OawVvPv9u" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

🔒 **Important:** Treat this key like a password—don’t share it publicly. If you lose it, you can delete it and generate a new one from your dashboard.