8.9.7.3 - Local AI API Security (Difficulty: Hero | Path: Lab)

The Bouncer: API Key Authentication

What is it?

How to implement it

In your FastAPI wrapper, you define a \"Dependency.\" This is a small function that runs before your main logic.

Concept Code:
if request_header_key != os.getenv(\"MY_SECRET_KEY\"): raise HTTPException(status_code=401)

Best Practices

• Never hardcode keys: Don't write the password inside your `main.py` file. Use an `.env` file or environment variable.
• Rotate keys: If you suspect a leak, change the key immediately.
• Client-side safety: Never put your API key in front-end Javascript code that users can inspect. Your API calls should happen server-to-server.