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

# Key management

API keys are created and managed in **Developer Settings** in the Perceptis web app. Use them to authenticate calls to `POST /api/v1/generate` and `GET /api/v1/status/{job_id}`.

Key creation and API usage require a paid Business or Enterprise organization plan. Free, Starter, and trial organizations are not eligible.

## Create a key

1. Open **Developer Settings**.
2. Create a new API key.
3. Copy the plaintext key when it is shown.
4. Store it in a secret manager or environment variable.

The plaintext key is shown only once. If you lose it, create a replacement key and revoke the old one.

## Use a key

Send the key as a bearer token:

```http
Authorization: Bearer <your-api-key>
```

A job can be polled only with the same API key that created it.

## Revoke a key

Revoke keys you no longer use from **Developer Settings**. Revoked keys stop authenticating Perceptis API requests and receive `401`.

## Recommended practices

* Use separate keys for separate integrations.
* Rotate keys on a regular schedule.
* Revoke keys immediately if they may have been exposed.
* Do not store keys in source control, client-side code, logs, or analytics tools.

## See also

* [Authentication](/perceptis-api-v1/authentication.md)
* [Base URLs and environment](/perceptis-api-v1/infra-routing-and-env.md)