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

# Authentication

> Securely authenticate your requests to Pulsedive’s API to enable seamless access to threat intelligence data.

Pulsedive uses API key authentication to secure and manage access to its threat intelligence endpoints.

We recommend including your API key with every request for the best performance and highest rate limits.
While you can make requests without an API key, you will encounter much stricter [rate limits](/api/limits/).

***

## Get Your API Key

<Steps>
  <Step title="Access your Pulsedive account">
    Visit Pulsedive and [log in](https://pulsedive.com/login) to your account, or [register](https://pulsedive.com/register) for free.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Get your API key">
    Navigate to [Account](https://pulsedive.com/account), then locate the **API key** section to retrieve your unique key.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Include the Key in Your Request

Include your API key in the `key` parameter in your request:

```bash theme={null}
# Replace the <YOUR_API_KEY> placeholder text with your Pulsedive API key

curl "https://pulsedive.com/api/indicator.php \
  ?indicator=1.1.1.1 \
  &pretty=1 \
  &key=<YOUR_API_KEY>"
```

***

## Best Practices

* **Keep your API key private**: Don't share it or commit it to source control.
* **Use an API tier that fits your needs**: If you need elevated rate limits, upgrade your [API plan](https://pulsedive.com/about/api).
* **Monitor your usage**: Check your API usage in the **Activity** section of your [Account page](https://pulsedive.com/account).