# Configure an API Key Credential Provider

> How to create and use an API Key Credential Provider

The Application Programming Interface (API) Key credential provider is designed for scenarios where authentication is accomplished using a static API Key.

An API Key is a secret used by workloads to identify themselves when making calls to an API. This API key acts as a security mechanism for controlling access to APIs.

## Credential Provider configuration

To configure an API Key Credential Provider, follow the steps outlined below.

1. Log into your Aembit Tenant.

2. Once you are logged into your tenant, select the **Credential Providers** tab in the left sidebar. You are directed to the Credential Providers page displaying a list of existing Credential Providers. In this example, there are no existing Credential Providers.

   ![Credential Providers - Main Page Empty](/_astro/credential_providers_main_page_empty.BTUxwZGj_ZknLOA.webp)

3. Click **+ New** to open the Credential Providers dialog window.

   ![Credential Providers - Dialog Window Empty](/_astro/credential_providers_api_key_dialog_window_empty.CmTCUtIJ_ZaoCpE.webp)

4. In the Credential Providers dialog window, enter the following information:

   * **Name** - Name of the Credential Provider.

   * **Description** - An optional text description of the Credential Provider.

   * **Credential Type** - A dropdown menu that enables you to configure the Credential Provider type. Select **API Key**.

   * **API Key** - The authentication key used to access the server workload. API keys are commonly generated by the system or service provider.

   ![Credential Providers - Dialog Window Completed](/_astro/credential_providers_api_key_dialog_window_completed.CygYNrbw_Z2fopot.webp)

5. Click **Save** when finished. You will be directed back to the Credential Providers page, where you will see your newly created Credential Provider.

   ![Credential Providers - Main Page With New Credential Provider](/_astro/credential_providers_api_key_main_page_with_new_credential_provider.ksJ8XI-r_bbLo9.webp)