> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.drops.bot/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.drops.bot/api-reference/authentication.md).

# Authentication

All API requests require authentication using API keys.

### API Key Authentication

Drops.bot uses API key authentication to secure access to shared endpoints. Include your API key in the `x-api-key` header with every request.

#### Header Format

```bash
x-api-key: YOUR_API_KEY_HERE
```

#### Example Request

```bash
curl -X GET \
  "https://api.drops.bot/v1/shared/v1/airdrops/evm/0x123...abcd" \
  -H "x-api-key: your-secret-api-key" \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json"
```

### Obtaining an API Key

To get your API key:

1. **Contact our team** - [Reach out on X](https://x.com/DropsBot) to request access
2. **Specify your use case** - Tell us how you plan to use the API
3. **Receive your key** - We'll provide you with a unique API key
4. **Start building** - Begin making authenticated requests

### API Key Security

{% hint style="warning" %}
**Keep your API key secure:**

* Never expose API keys in client-side code
* Store keys securely in environment variables
  {% endhint %}

#### Environment Variables

Store your API key securely:

```bash
# .env
DROPS_BOT_API_KEY=your-secret-api-key
```

```javascript
// Using the API key in your application
const response = await fetch('https://api.drops.bot/shared/v1/airdrops/evm/0x123...', {
  headers: {
    'x-api-key': process.env.DROPS_BOT_API_KEY,
    'Content-Type': 'application/json'
  }
})
```