An access key is used to control access to an API. Who gets to access an API and send, retrieve, or edit your data is controlled by access keys.

Access keys typically consist of two parts: the access key ID and the secret access key itself. Much like a user ID and a password, you need both halves in order to access the API and make requests to the API endpoint. And just like your login credentials, your access keys should be kept secret and kept secure.

Using an access key to retrieve your data is safe and secure so long as you keep your access key safe and secret. In Flatfile, when access keys are generated, they are typically only shown to you once, and they are never stored in plain text.

For instructions on generating access keys, click here.