How to get the OKX API key?

Generate an OKX API key via your account’s API Management section, set permissions like trade or read access, and secure it with 2FA and IP whitelisting.

Jul 03, 2025 at 09:28 pm

Understanding the Purpose of an OKX API Key

Before diving into the steps to obtain an OKX API key, it’s essential to understand what an API key is and why it's important. An Application Programming Interface (API) key acts as a unique identifier that allows users to interact with OKX services programmatically. This includes trading, checking account balances, or managing orders through third-party applications or custom scripts.

The OKX API key grants access to specific functions based on the permissions you set during its creation. These permissions can include read-only access, trade execution, or withdrawal capabilities. It's crucial to manage these permissions carefully to avoid unauthorized transactions or data exposure.

Prerequisites for Generating an OKX API Key

To generate an OKX API key, certain prerequisites must be met:

• You must have a registered and verified OKX account.
• Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) should be enabled for enhanced security.
• Ensure your account has no suspicious activity or pending verifications that might block API access.

It’s also recommended to familiarize yourself with OKX’s API documentation to understand the functionalities available and how to integrate them safely into your application or bot.

Step-by-Step Guide to Generate an OKX API Key

Below are the detailed steps to create your OKX API key:

• Log in to your OKX account via the official website.
• Navigate to the top-right corner and click on your profile icon, then select "API Management" from the dropdown menu.
• On the API Management page, click the "Create API Key" button.
• Choose the account type you want to associate the API with — Spot, Futures, or other available options.
• Select the permissions you wish to grant to this API key: Read, Trade, or Withdrawal. Be cautious with Withdrawal permissions.
• Set IP Whitelisting if desired. This restricts API usage to specific IP addresses, adding another layer of security.
• Confirm your settings by entering your email verification code and 2FA code.
• After successful verification, your API Key and Secret Key will be displayed. Make sure to save them securely as they won’t be shown again.

Securing Your OKX API Key

Once generated, the security of your OKX API key becomes paramount. Here are some best practices:

• Never share your API Key or Secret Key publicly or store them in plain text files.
• Use encryption when storing keys locally or in cloud environments.
• Regularly rotate your API keys, especially if they were used in shared or public projects.
• Monitor your API usage logs within OKX to detect any unusual activity.
• If you suspect a breach, immediately revoke the compromised key and generate a new one.

These steps ensure that your funds and account information remain secure while leveraging the power of automation or third-party tools.

Using Your OKX API Key in Applications

After obtaining your OKX API key, you may want to integrate it into a trading bot, analytics tool, or portfolio manager. To do so:

• Locate the configuration or settings section of your chosen application.
• Look for fields labeled "API Key," "Secret Key," and sometimes "Passphrase."
• Enter your OKX API Key, Secret Key, and if prompted, a passphrase you’ve configured during API creation.
• Save the configuration and test the connection using built-in tools if available.
• Always double-check the permissions assigned to the API key to ensure it aligns with the intended use case.

Some platforms may require additional setup like specifying the exchange name or endpoint URLs, which can be found in OKX’s official API documentation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I modify the permissions of my OKX API key after creation?

No, once an OKX API key is created, its permissions cannot be modified. You’ll need to revoke the existing key and generate a new one with the updated permissions.

Q2: What should I do if I lose my OKX API Secret Key?

If you lose your Secret Key, you cannot recover it. You must revoke the affected API key and generate a new one from the API Management section of your OKX account.

Q3: Is it safe to enable withdrawal permissions on an OKX API key?

Enabling withdrawal permissions increases risk. Only enable this if absolutely necessary, and always pair it with IP whitelisting and regular monitoring.

Q4: How many API keys can I generate on OKX?

OKX allows users to create multiple API keys, each with different permissions and settings. This enables better management across various applications or team members.