Reviewed guide | 2026-10-14
API key permissions and IP allowlists before connecting trading bots
Creating an API key on Binance, OKX, Bybit, or Bitget needs tight permissions, optional IP allowlists, and a plan for rotation. Follow the official support steps and never enable withdraw unless you truly need it.
Multiple exchanges | the reader's region | the reader's funding currency | fees, access and account safety
API keys turn a reading script or a bot into an actor that can place orders on your behalf. A key with withdraw rights, no IP restriction, and a secret pasted into a random tool is a common incident pattern. Exchange support centers explain how to create keys, choose permissions, and bind IP allowlists. This article walks through a conservative setup you can apply on Binance, OKX, Bybit, or Bitget, focusing on least privilege and verification habits rather than promising performance.
Create the key only from the official security settings page
Sign in through your bookmark or the official app, open API management from the security settings, and create a new key there. Name the key after the specific tool and date so you can revoke it later without guessing. Copy the secret once into a password manager; many platforms show the secret only at creation time. Never accept a key creation link that arrived by email or chat, and never paste a secret into a browser console “to test connectivity.”
Enable only the permissions the tool actually needs
Most portfolio trackers need read-only market and account data. Trading bots need trade permissions but usually not withdraw. Leave withdraw disabled unless you have a documented reason and a separate operational review. If the tool documentation asks for broad “enable all” permissions, treat that as a red flag and look for a narrower integration. Re-read the permission list in the exchange UI after saving; do not rely on memory of what you clicked earlier.
Bind an IP allowlist when the platform offers it
When the exchange lets you restrict a key to specific IP addresses, add only the servers that will call the API. Home dynamic IPs change, so prefer a stable host or update the allowlist deliberately when your network changes. A key that works from anywhere is convenient for an attacker who steals the secret. After binding IPs, confirm from the allowed host that signed requests succeed, then confirm from another network that they fail as expected.
Rotate, revoke, and log every key you create
Keep a private log of key name, creation date, permissions, and the tool that uses it. Rotate keys on a schedule or whenever a device is lost, a contractor leaves, or a library you rely on discloses a leak. Revoke unused keys instead of leaving them “just in case.” If you suspect exposure, revoke first, then review recent API activity in the account security logs described by the support center. Do not share secrets in tickets; support will not ask for the raw secret in public channels.
Risk boundary: DeFi Protocols Hub
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Scenario checkpoint
- Create API keys only from the in-app or bookmarked security settings page.
- Prefer read-only permissions; keep withdraw disabled unless strictly required.
- Bind IP allowlists when available and test that other networks are rejected.
- Store secrets in a password manager and never paste them into chat or email.
- Maintain a private key inventory and revoke unused or suspect keys immediately.
Digital assets are volatile and derivatives can amplify losses. This website has no login, wallet connection, deposit form or customer-support chat.