How to get API key from Bybit?

What Is an API Key and Why Do You Need It on Bybit?

To interact with the Bybit platform programmatically, especially for trading bots, data analysis, or automated trading strategies, users need to generate an API key. An API (Application Programming Interface) key acts as a secure token that authenticates your access to Bybit's API services. It allows external applications to communicate with your Bybit account while maintaining security and control over permissions. Generating an API key ensures that you can execute trades, retrieve account data, or monitor positions without manually logging into the Bybit website every time.

Logging Into Your Bybit Account

Before you can access the API management section, you must first log in to your Bybit account. Navigate to the official Bybit website and enter your email address and password. Ensure that two-factor authentication (2FA) is enabled for added security. Once logged in, move your cursor to the user profile icon located in the top-right corner of the screen. From the dropdown menu, locate and click on the API Management option. This will redirect you to the API settings page, where you can generate and manage your API keys.

Creating a New API Key

On the API Management page, you will see an option labeled Create New API Key. Click this button to initiate the creation process. A pop-up window will appear, prompting you to enter a label for your new API key. This label helps you identify the purpose or the application that will use the key. After assigning a label, you will be asked to configure the permissions for the API key. You can choose to enable or disable specific access rights such as:

• Enable Spot Trading
• Enable Futures Trading
• Enable Wallet Access
• Enable Read-Only Access

It is highly recommended to grant only the necessary permissions based on your intended use of the API key. Overly broad permissions may pose security risks if the key is compromised.

Completing the Two-Factor Authentication Step

Once you have configured the label and permissions, the next step involves verifying your identity through two-factor authentication (2FA). If you have already set up 2FA using an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy, open the app and enter the current verification code. Alternatively, if you have opted for email-based 2FA, check your inbox for a confirmation link or code and input it accordingly. This step ensures that only the account owner can generate API keys, adding a crucial layer of protection to your Bybit account.

Retrieving and Storing Your API Key Securely

After successfully completing the 2FA process, your API key and secret will be displayed on the screen. It is important to copy both the API key and the secret key immediately, as they will not be shown again. The secret key is used for signing API requests and must be kept confidential. Store these credentials in a secure password manager or a safe location that is not accessible to others. Bybit does not store your secret key, so if you lose it, you will need to generate a new API key.

You can view and manage your existing API keys on the same API Management page. Here, you can also disable or delete keys if they are no longer needed or if you suspect they have been compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use the same API key for multiple applications?It is not recommended to share the same API key across multiple applications. Each application should ideally have its own unique API key to ensure better security and easier tracking of API usage.

Q: What should I do if I lose my API secret key?If you lose your secret key, you cannot recover it. You will need to delete the existing API key and create a new one with the required permissions.

Q: How many API keys can I create on Bybit?Bybit allows users to create up to 20 API keys per account. This limit ensures that users maintain control over their API access points while allowing flexibility for different applications.

Q: Is it safe to enable trading permissions for an API key?Enabling trading permissions is safe as long as the API key is stored securely and used only by trusted applications. Always review the permissions and limit access to only what is necessary for the intended use.