Generating an OpenAI API Key

Complete guide to creating and securing OpenAI API keys for GPT-5, GPT-4, and other OpenAI models in 2025

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Navigate to OpenAI Platform

Go to https://platform.openai.com in your web browser.

Step 2: Sign Up or Log In

New User:

• Click “Sign up” to create an account
• Use email or sign up with Google/Microsoft
• Complete email or phone verification when prompted

Existing User:

• Click “Log in”
• Enter your credentials

Step 3: Access Your Dashboard

Once logged in, you’ll see the OpenAI Platform dashboard with your account overview.

Step 4: Create a Project

Click the “Start building” button in the top-right corner to create a new project.

Step 5: Name Your API Key

Give your API key a descriptive name to identify its purpose:

Good Examples:

• Weam Integration
• Production Chatbot
• Development Testing
• Analytics Dashboard

Then click “Create secret key”.

Step 6: Copy and Secure Your Key

Critical Security Step:

• Copy the key immediately – this is the only time you’ll see it
• Store it securely in a password manager or secure environment
• Never share publicly or commit to version control
• Revoke and regenerate if accidentally exposed

Step 7: Set Up Billing (If Required)

Free Credits:

• OpenAI provides $5 in free credits for new users
• Perfect for testing and initial development

Add Billing Method:

• Navigate to Billing section in your dashboard
• Add credit card or payment method for continued usage
• Set usage limits to control costs

Step 8: Add to Weam

Now integrate your OpenAI API key with Weam:

1. Open Weam and go to Settings → Configurations
2. Select OpenAI as your provider
3. Paste your API key in the configuration field
4. Save and test the connection

API Key Types and Permissions

Understanding different API key types ensures proper security and functionality.

Normal API Keys vs Admin API Keys

Feature	Normal API Keys (Project Keys)	Admin API Keys
Purpose	Access AI models (GPT, DALL-E)	Manage organization admin tasks
Use Cases	Build apps, generate content, chat interfaces	Manage users, billing, org settings
Scope	Project-specific access	Organization-wide access
Who Creates	Project members with permissions	Organization owners only
Security Level	Medium risk	High risk
For Weam	✅ Recommended	❌ Not needed

Permission Levels

Permission	Access Rights	Best For	Risk Level
All Permissions	Full API access, all models	Production apps, Weam integration	High
Restricted	Limited endpoints, custom scope	Testing, third-party tools	Medium
Read Only	View-only, no modifications	Analytics, monitoring	Low

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