What Are API Keys?

API keys are a simple yet effective way to secure your API without complex authentication protocols like OAuth2. They enable basic access control, let you track usage, and are easy to implement. While API keys don’t offer the advanced features of OAuth2 or JWT, they are ideal for quick integrations and lightweight scenarios.

How Do API Keys Work?

There is no universal standard for API keys—each implementation may differ slightly. However, the concept remains consistent: an API key is a unique secret sent with a request to identify the client and, in some cases, authorize the request.

In the example, the client includes the API key in the X-API-Key HTTP header. The gateway verifies the key against a database or key store. If valid, the request is processed. If not, it returns a 401 Unauthorized status.

API Key Support in Membrane

Membrane API Gateway offers flexible API key support to meet a wide range of security needs:

Key storage: Store API keys in files, SQL databases, or MongoDB.
Authorization: Role-based access control (RBAC) with groups and scopes.
Flexible key placement: Accept API keys in headers, query parameters, or even JSON payloads.
Integration with token-based security: Exchange API keys for JWTs or OAuth2 tokens.

See working examples in the API key examples folder within the Membrane distribution.