Create And Manage API Keys In Langchain Platform
Want to connect LangSmith to your own app or an automation so you can trace and debug your AI workflows? You'll need an API key, and in about a minute and a half, I'll walk you through creating one. Quick context: LangSmith is LangChain's platform for tracing, testing, and monitoring LLM apps, and an API key is the secure password your code uses to send it data. You'll also pick what kind of key fits your use case. Let's log in and create one.
Written By Fred Yalmeh
Last updated 27 days ago
Go to smith.langchain.com
1. Introduction
Start by signing in over at smith.langchain.com. Once you're in, you'll see your workspace, with the menu running down the left side. Everything we need is tucked into your settings.
2. Access Settings Menu
Down at the bottom of the left menu, click "Settings." This opens all your account and workspace configuration options.
3. Open API Keys Section
Click "API Keys" to navigate to the area where you can manage your API credentials.In the settings menu, click "API Keys." This is where you manage all your credentials. If you haven't made any yet, the list will be empty.
4. Select Existing API Key
To make a new key, click the "Plus API Key" button in the top-right corner. A "Create an API Key" window will open where you'll set it up.
5. Edit API Key Description
In the Description field, type a label that tells you what this key is for, like the app or workflow you're connecting. It's just for your own reference, so make it something you'll recognize later.
6. Link Key To Service Principal
Now pick your Key Type. A Personal Access Token is tied to you as an individual user. A Service Key is meant for automation and CI workflows, so it isn't linked to a single person. For connecting an app or agent, choose the Service Key. You can also set an expiration date here if you want the key to retire automatically.
7. Create New API Key
If you picked a Service Key, you can also set its scope — full organization, or specific workspaces. Once everything looks right, click "Create API Key." LangSmith generates it instantly.
8. Copy API Key To Clipboard
Here's your new key. Click "Copy" and paste it straight into your app, script, or secrets manager. Do this now and store it somewhere safe, because if you lose it, you'll have to create a brand new one.
And that's it. You've created an API key in LangSmith, chosen the right key type, and copied it somewhere safe. You're now ready to connect your apps and automations and start tracing your AI workflows. Thanks for watching, and I'll catch you in the next one.
Still need help? Ask the team