# Access key

**Bito Access Key** allows for an alternate authentication mechanism in contrast to the standard Email & OTP based authentication. Access Keys can be created via the [Bito Web UI](https://alpha.bito.ai/) and utilized within the [Bito CLI](https://docs.bito.ai/other-bito-ai-tools/bito-cli). This guide outlines the process of creating or deleting an Access Key.

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## Creating an Access Key&#x20;

Follow these steps to create a Bito Access Key:&#x20;

1. Log in to your account at: <https://alpha.bito.ai/>&#x20;
2. Navigate to **Settings > Advanced settings** by [visiting this link](https://alpha.bito.ai/home/advanced).
3. Click the **Create new key** button.
4. Enter a name for your Bito Access Key to make it easily identifiable.
5. Click **Create Bito Access Key** to generate your key.
6. Copy the key immediately, as it will not be displayed again after you close the popup.

{% hint style="info" %}
It's crucial to protect your Bito Access Key. Avoid checking it into your code repositories to prevent accidental exposure. If you suspect that your Bito Access Key has been compromised, promptly delete it and create a new one. You can do this anytime.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="info" %}
You can create multiple Bito Access Keys to use in different projects.
{% endhint %}

## Deleting an Access Key&#x20;

To delete an existing Bito Access Key, follow these steps:&#x20;

1. Log in to your account at: <https://alpha.bito.ai/>&#x20;
2. Navigate to **Settings > Advanced settings** by [visiting this link](https://alpha.bito.ai/home/advanced).
3. Click the **trash icon** next to the Bito Access Key you want to delete.
4. A confirmation popup will appear asking if you are sure you want to delete the key. Click **Yes** to proceed.

{% hint style="info" %}
Once a Bito Access Key is deleted, it cannot be recovered. So, before deleting a key, ensure it is not in use.
{% endhint %}