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

# Authentication

Paygentic uses API keys as bearer tokens for authentication. Every request must include a valid key.

## Key structure

Keys are tied to users and environments:

* Each key belongs to one user
* Inherits that user's permissions
* Environment-specific: `sk_test_` (sandbox) or `sk_live_` (production)
* Work only with their matching API endpoint

See [Environments](/environments) for details on sandbox vs production.

## Getting keys

After logging into the Paygentic dashboard:

1. Navigate to Settings
2. Select API Keys tab
3. Copy your key

Store securely in environment variables or secret managers. Never expose in client-side code or commit to version control.

## Making requests

Include keys in the Authorization header using Bearer authentication scheme.

All requests must use HTTPS. HTTP requests will fail. Unauthenticated requests will fail.

For user permission management, see [Organizations](/platform/organizations).