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How to Get a Shopify API Key?
Last modified: March 16, 2020
Before we even get into the details of this post let’s first discuss what exactly an API key actually is. API is an abbreviation for application programming interface. Now what does it mean “API Key”? An Application Programming Interface Key is a code that gets passed in an application. Normally, API keys are used to help with tracking and controlling how the interface of the app is being used. The key does this to prevent misuse and abusive use of the actual API. An API key can also be used as an authentication process.
Now that everyone is caught up on what an API is, let’s talk about how you can get an API key for Shopify.
How Can I Generate API Credentials?
First thing’s first. You need to generate API credentials and these can be different depending on whether you are building a private app for a specific store or a public app for the Shopify App store in general.
How Can I Generate Private API Credentials?
If you want to generate API credentials for a private app you can use your Partner dashboard or Shopify admin panel.
Let’s start with how to create the credentials using your Partner dashboard. Here are the steps:
- Log in to your Partner Dashboard
- Click on Development Stores
- Choose the name of the store you want to build for
- In Shopify Admin click on Apps
- Select Manage Private Apps
- Click Generate API Credentials
- Enter in a title
- Click Save
Below are the steps to use if you are working in your Shopify Admin panel.
- Log in to your Shopify Admin panel
- Click Apps
- Select Manage Private Apps
- Click on Generate API Credentials
- Enter in a title
- Click Save
How Can I Generate Public API Credentials?
These are the steps to follow if you want to generate public API credentials for a public app.
- Log in to your Partners dashboard
- Click on Apps followed by Create App
- Enter the name of your app and the app URL. Make sure to check the box that reads “I have read and agree to the Partner Program Agreement”
- Click Create App
- In the App’s overview page click on Get API Credentials
- Scroll to the app credentials section to view the API key and and API secret key
You’re now all set to create an API key for whatever kind of app you build. Whether the app will be private or public you now know what you need to do to create the API key that will help you make your app successful.