How to get an OKX API key for trading bots?

To securely use a trading bot with OKX, generate an API key with limited permissions and enable IP whitelisting for added protection.

Jul 09, 2025 at 10:22 pm

Understanding the Purpose of an OKX API Key

To interact with the OKX exchange programmatically, such as using trading bots, you need to obtain an API key. This key acts as a secure credential that allows your bot to perform actions on your behalf, like placing trades, checking balances, or fetching market data. The API key grants access to specific functions depending on how you configure its permissions during creation.

Accessing Your OKX Account and Navigating to the API Section

Before generating an API key, ensure you have an active account on OKX. Log in to your account via the official website. Once logged in, navigate to the "Trade" section from the top menu bar. From there, select "API" or use the search functionality to locate the API management page directly.

On this page, you will find options to create new API keys. Click on "Create API Key" to begin the setup process. You may be prompted to complete additional security verifications, such as two-factor authentication (2FA) or email confirmation, to ensure the safety of your account.

Setting Up API Permissions for Trading Bots

When creating your API key, it's crucial to assign the correct permissions based on what your trading bot needs to do. For most automated trading purposes, you should enable the following:

• Spot Trading: If your bot is designed to trade spot assets.
• Futures Trading: If your bot interacts with derivatives markets.
• Read Balance: To allow the bot to check your available funds.
• Place Orders: So the bot can execute buy/sell commands.
• Cancel Orders: To manage open positions effectively.

Avoid granting unnecessary permissions like withdrawal rights, as this poses a significant risk if your API credentials are compromised. Always tailor the permissions strictly to the bot’s operational requirements.

Configuring IP Whitelisting for Enhanced Security

Security is paramount when dealing with API keys, especially those used by third-party applications like trading bots. OKX offers IP whitelisting, which restricts API access to only the specified IP addresses. This feature adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.

To set up IP whitelisting:

• Locate the "IP Whitelist" section while creating or editing your API key.
• Enter the public IP address of the server or device where your trading bot will run.
• Multiple IPs can be added if necessary, separated by commas.

If you're running the bot locally and don’t have a static IP, consider using a dynamic DNS service or hosting the bot on a cloud platform with a fixed IP address.

Copying and Storing Your API Credentials Securely

After completing the configuration, OKX will display your API key, secret key, and sometimes a passphrase. These are critical components for authenticating your bot’s requests.

It is essential to:

• Copy these details immediately, as they won't be shown again once you leave the page.
• Store them securely, preferably in an encrypted file or password manager.
• Avoid sharing them publicly or committing them to code repositories.

Your secret key is used to sign API requests and must remain confidential. Exposure of this key could lead to unauthorized transactions on your account.

Integrating the API Key into Your Trading Bot

Once you have your API credentials, the next step is integrating them into your trading bot software. Most bots require you to input the following:

• API Key
• Secret Key
• Passphrase (if applicable)
• Exchange Name (e.g., OKX)

Refer to your bot’s documentation for exact integration steps. Typically, you’ll paste the keys into a configuration file or GUI interface provided by the bot application. Ensure that all fields are filled correctly to avoid connection errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I reuse an existing API key for multiple trading bots?

Yes, you can use the same API key across different bots, but it's not recommended due to potential conflicts and increased security risks. It's better to create separate API keys for each bot instance.

Q2: What should I do if my API key gets exposed or compromised?

Immediately log in to your OKX account, go to the API settings, and revoke the compromised key. Generate a new one with appropriate permissions and update your bot configurations accordingly.

Q3: Is it possible to change the permissions of an existing API key?

No, once created, the permissions of an API key cannot be modified. You'll need to delete the current key and generate a new one with the desired settings.

Q4: How often should I rotate my API keys for security?

While there’s no strict rule, rotating API keys every few months or after any suspected breach is considered a good practice. Regular rotation helps mitigate long-term exposure risks.