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

# Authentication

> How to authenticate with the Centos Finance API

All API requests must include your API key in the `x-api-key` header.

## Getting an API Key

1. Sign up at [app.centosfi.com](https://app.centosfi.com)
2. Go to **Settings → API Keys**
3. Click **Create API Key**
4. Copy and securely store your key — it will only be shown once

## Using Your API Key

```python theme={null}
import requests

headers = {"x-api-key": "your_api_key"}

response = requests.get(
    "https://api.centosfi.com/v1/markets/search",
    headers=headers,
    params={"q": "bitcoin"}
)
```

<Warning>
  Never share your API key or commit it to source control. Use environment variables to store it securely.
</Warning>