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

# Authentication

> Learn how to authenticate with the Octanist API

## API Key Authentication

All endpoints require an API key passed in the `X-API-KEY` header.

### Getting Your API Key

You can find your API key in your Octanist dashboard under Settings > General > API Keys.

<Warning>
  Make sure you are in the correct organization. The API key is
  organization-specific and if you get the wrong API key, you might see leads
  going to the wrong organization or other unwanted behavior.
</Warning>

### Using Your API Key

Include your API key in the `X-API-KEY` header with every request:

```bash theme={null}
curl -H "X-API-KEY: your_api_key" https://octanist.com/api/leads
```

## Security Best Practices

<Warning>
  Keep your API key secure and never expose it in client-side code or public
  repositories.
</Warning>

* Store your API key in environment variables
* Rotate your API keys regularly
* Monitor API usage for unusual activity