API Key Generator

Developer

Create secure random API keys and tokens in various formats. Generate authentication keys for testing and development.

Generated Key
sk_test_TtyJUzdiSaPwXeezm6CdNIe9

What is an API Key?

An API key is a unique identifier used to authenticate requests to an application programming interface (API). API keys act as simple access tokens that identify the calling project or application, enabling rate limiting, usage tracking, and access control. Unlike OAuth tokens, API keys are typically long-lived and grant broad access to an API's resources.

This generator creates API keys in four industry-standard formats: Stripe-style prefixed keys, Base64 encoded tokens, hexadecimal strings, and UUID v4 identifiers. All keys are generated using cryptographically secure random values in your browser.

API Key Formats

Stripe-style Prefixed Keys

Keys with prefixes like sk_live_ or pk_test_ that indicate the key type and environment. Used by Stripe, Twilio, SendGrid, and other major API providers.

Base64 Encoded Tokens

URL-safe Base64 encoded random bytes. Compact and widely compatible with HTTP headers, query parameters, and configuration files.

Hexadecimal Strings

Random bytes encoded as lowercase hex characters. Common for internal services, database-stored keys, and systems that require alphanumeric-only identifiers.

UUID v4 Format

Standard RFC 4122 UUID format with 122 bits of randomness. Universally recognized, easily stored in database UUID columns, and human-readable with dashes.

API Key Security Best Practices

  • Never commit API keys to version control — Use environment variables or secrets managers like AWS Secrets Manager, HashiCorp Vault, or Doppler.
  • Rotate keys regularly — Set up key rotation policies to minimize damage from leaked credentials.
  • Use separate keys per environment — Keep development, staging, and production keys isolated to limit blast radius.
  • Restrict key permissions — Apply the principle of least privilege. Scope API keys to specific endpoints or operations where possible.
  • Monitor key usage — Track API key usage patterns to detect anomalies and unauthorized access attempts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should an API key be?

Most API keys are 32-64 characters. The recommended minimum is 128 bits (32 hex characters) of entropy to prevent brute-force attacks.

What is the difference between an API key and an OAuth token?

API keys identify the application making the request and are typically long-lived. OAuth tokens authenticate specific users, have scoped permissions, and expire after a set period.

Can I use these API keys in production?

These keys are generated with cryptographically secure randomness and are suitable as placeholder keys for development and testing. For production, generate keys server-side with your API management platform.