API keys in Atlas

Last updated October 14, 2026

Who can use this feature?
Admins only.

Overview

An API key is a unique credential that authorizes requests between external applications and Atlas. Instead of sharing account credentials, you issue API keys so tools, systems or team members can use the Atlas API and its documentation.

Create a separate key for each person or system. This makes it easy to track usage and to revoke one key without affecting the others.

Related articles:
• Webhooks in Atlas: Have Atlas send event notifications to your systems automatically.
• How to manage secrets: Store credentials that Atlas uses to call other services.
• How to create and manage API templates: Call external APIs from Atlas.

Key Features

No shared passwords: Give tools and team members API access without sharing account credentials.
One key per person or system: Track usage and activity for each key.
Unique names: Each key needs a name that no other key uses.
Shown only once: The full key is visible only while you create it. Afterwards, only its first characters appear.
Instant revocation: Block a key immediately without affecting other integrations.
Key history: See when each key was added and last used, and view revoked keys with "Show Revoked".

How to create an API key

Go to "App Configuration > Data > API & webhooks" and click "Add key".
Enter a descriptive "Name", for example "Production Server" or "Testing App". The name must not be used by another key.
Click the copy icon to copy the full key. To view it, click the eye icon.
Check "I have copied the key" and click "Save". The key appears in the table with its first characters, the date added and the last used date.
Use the key as the credential for requests to the Atlas API. Click "View API documentation" or go to the Atlas API docs .

Important:
Store the key in a safe place, such as a password manager, right away. You can't view the full key again after you leave the screen.

How to revoke an API key

Go to "App Configuration > Data > API & webhooks" .
Click the ellipsis icon on the key row and select "Revoke".
Click "OK" to confirm.

Warning:
Revoking a key can't be undone. Any application or user that uses the key is blocked from the API immediately.

To see revoked keys, turn on "Show Revoked".

FAQs & Troubleshooting

Why can't I save my new API key?

Key names must be unique. Choose a name that no other key uses.

Can I view the full key again later?

No. The full key is shown only during creation. If you lost it, revoke the key and create a new one.

Can I restore a revoked key?

No. Create a new key instead.

What's the difference between API keys and webhooks?

With an API key, your application sends requests to Atlas to read or update data. With a webhook, Atlas sends data to your application when an event happens.

Was this article helpful?

Table of contents