API keys and groups
An API key authenticates model requests; it is not your account password. The same model may appear in multiple groups with different prices, permissions and availability.
Choose a model and group first
- Search the exact model ID in Model Plaza. Open its details to inspect groups, protocol, units and pricing conditions.
- Sign in and open API Keys. Check the groups available when creating a key. Use only your own key.
- Configure the appropriate client protocol and exact model ID. A group name is not a model ID.
- Send a short request and confirm its model, time and charge in Usage. A successful test may incur charges.
Your account interface determines which groups you can select. Public visibility does not grant access. If the target group is missing, contact support rather than trying to bypass permissions by changing names.
Comparing groups
Compare the same model, billing unit and pricing tier, together with the group description and current status. A lower price does not promise higher concurrency, longer context, compatibility with every protocol or guaranteed reliability.
Read the price and status for the same group. Temporary rate limits, pauses and model permissions are different issues. Listing a model does not verify its chat, tools, image and video capabilities.
Listed model, failed request
Check the exact model ID, key group, protocol and endpoint, balance/key status, and specific error code in that order. Model names alone do not establish protocol compatibility. See Troubleshooting.
Key safety
- Never include keys in URLs, public code, screenshots, tickets or chat messages.
- Restrict access to configuration files and backups containing keys. Environment variables are not encrypted storage either.
- If lost or exposed, delete the old key on the main site, create a new one and update clients. Creating a new key does not by itself revoke the old key.
- Verify the replacement with a short request; never disclose the old key to demonstrate revocation.
See Billing and Data and privacy.