> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.connect-crm.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Authentication

> How to generate access tokens and authenticate request to our Rest API.

## Access Tokens

### How to create an API Key

To interact with the Connect-CRM REST API, you need to generate an API key from your Connect-CRM account. Follow these steps:

1. First navigate to the Security and Access section in Connect-CRM. You can find it under **Settings > Security and Access**.

2. In the Security and Access section, look for the **Create API Key** button and click on it.

<Frame>
  <img src="https://mintcdn.com/connect-crm/IhvlBFhNLcLNnSsk/images/create-api-key-dialog.png?fit=max&auto=format&n=IhvlBFhNLcLNnSsk&q=85&s=ef8fe80f892b8adf5140c58ec83ad318" alt="Screenshot of the create API key form." style={{ borderRadius: '0.5rem' }} width="597" height="675" data-path="images/create-api-key-dialog.png" />
</Frame>

1. Fill in the required details in the dialog that appear. And click **Create**.

2. Once created, make sure to copy and securely store your API key.

<Note>
  For security reasons, the API key will only be shown once at the time of
  creation. If you lose it, you will need to create a new one.
</Note>

### Using the API Key

To authenticate your requests to the Connect-CRM REST API, include the API key in the `Authorization` header of your HTTP requests.

<CodeBlock>Authorization: Bearer YOUR\_API\_KEY</CodeBlock>