---
title: "Delete or replace an API key"
canonical_url: https://docs.zvid.io/docs/dashboard/api-keys-delete/
source: docs/dashboard/api-keys-delete.md
content_revision: 6338386a1dd87e4a
---

# Delete or replace an API key

Deleting an API key revokes its ability to authenticate new requests to Zvid.

## When to use it

Delete a key that is unused, lost, or exposed. Replace a key when changing the credential used by an application.

## Before you begin

Identify every application or workflow using the key. If you need continuity, create and test a replacement before deleting the old key. If the key is exposed, revoke it promptly.

## Delete a key

**Location:** **Dashboard → API Keys → Delete API key**.

1. Open [API Keys](https://app.zvid.io/api-keys) from the sidebar.
2. Find the key by its name and masked prefix.
3. Click the trash icon labeled **Delete API key** on that key's card.
4. Read the browser confirmation, check the key name, and confirm deletion.

The **API key deleted successfully** message appears and the card disappears.

> **Deletion cannot be undone**
Applications using the deleted key will fail to authenticate subsequent requests. The old secret cannot be restored. Deleting a key does not delete the account's projects, templates, or render history.

## Replace a key with minimal interruption

1. [Create a new key](https://docs.zvid.io/docs/dashboard/api-keys/) with a distinct name.
2. Update the saved credential in each application or automation that uses the old key.
3. Verify that those integrations authenticate successfully with the new key.
4. Return to **API Keys** and delete the old key.

## Troubleshooting

### My automation stopped working after deletion

**Cause:** It is still sending the revoked key.

**Solution:** Update its credential to an active key, then retry the request. If you do not have the full value of another active key, create a new one.

### I cannot find a deleted key

The dashboard lists active keys. A removed key is not recoverable from that list.

## Related documentation

- [Create an API key](https://docs.zvid.io/docs/dashboard/api-keys/)
- [Authentication](https://docs.zvid.io/docs/authentication/)
- [Reset your password](https://docs.zvid.io/docs/dashboard/account-password/)