# Managing API Keys

This guide explains how to generate and manage API keys for connecting SheetPoet to Google Sheets.

# Generating an API Key

1. Log in to your WordPress admin dashboard
2. Navigate to SheetPoet > Settings
3. In the API Keys section, click Generate New API Key
4. Enter a name for your key (e.g., "Google Sheets Connection")
5. Click Generate
6. Copy the generated API key immediately (it will only be shown once)

# Using Your API Key

Your API key is used to authenticate the connection between Google Sheets and WordPress:

1. Open Google Sheets and access SheetPoet
2. When connecting to your WordPress site, paste the API key when prompted
3. The API key allows secure communication between the platforms

# Managing Existing Keys

The API Keys section shows all your active keys with:

• Name: The name you provided when creating the key
• Created: When the key was generated
• Actions: Options to delete the key

# Deleting an API Key

If you need to revoke access:

1. Go to SheetPoet > Settings
2. Find the key you want to delete
3. Click the Delete button
4. Confirm the deletion

Important: Deleting an API key immediately invalidates it. Any Google Sheets using that key will lose connection to your WordPress site.

# Security Best Practices

To ensure secure use of API keys:

• Disable the API key functionality when not in use
• Generate different keys for different users or purposes
• Regenerate keys periodically for better security
• Never share your API key publicly
• Delete unused keys to minimize security risks

# Troubleshooting

If your API key isn't working:

• Verify you copied the entire key without extra spaces
• Generate a new key if you suspect the current one is compromised
• Ensure your WordPress site is accessible from the internet
• Check that the plugin is activated

For more help, see our Troubleshooting Guide.