In the digital world, integrating Google services into web applications has become commonplace. Google APIs offer a wide range of functionalities, from Maps to Analytics, that can enhance the user experience. However, to use these APIs, developers need to obtain API keys. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of obtaining Google API keys from the Google Developer Console, step by step.
What are Google API Keys?
Google API keys are unique identifiers that allow access to various Google services and APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). These keys are used to authenticate and authorize requests made to Google’s APIs, such as Google Maps API, Google Places API, API Constant console, and many others.
With a Google API key, developers can integrate Google services into their applications, websites, or software products, enabling functionalities like displaying maps, retrieving location data, accessing user information, and interacting with Google’s cloud services.
API keys help Google track and manage usage, enforce usage limits, and provide security by allowing control over which services and resources can be accessed. Developers typically obtain API keys by registering their projects with the Google Cloud Platform Console and enabling the specific APIs they intend to use.
Step 1: Sign in to Google Cloud Console
To get API keys, you need to sign in to the Google Cloud Console.
If you don’t have an account, you’ll need to create one.
Step 2: Create a new project or select an existing one.
Once signed in, click on the project drop-down menu at the top of the page.
Select the existing project or create a new project by clicking on “New Project.”
Enter a name for your project and click “Create.”
Step 3: Enable APIs for your project
With your project selected, navigate to the “APIs & Services” by clicking on the “APIs & Services” as shown in the image.
Here, you have to click on “ENABLE APIS AND SERVICES” to enable the API you want to use.
The Search page will be open. Here, you can search for the APIs you want to use, such as Maps JavaScript API or Google Analytics API.
Click on the API you want to enable and then click the “Enable” button.
Step 4: How to Create Credentials
After enabling the APIs, go to the “Credentials” section in the left sidebar under “APIs & Services.”
Click on the “Create credentials” button and select “API key” or “OAuth Client ID” from the dropdown menu.
On clicking on “API Key” you can create an API key Whereas on clicking “OAuth Client ID” you can create a Client ID and Client secret.
Step 5: Restrict the API Key (Optional but Recommended)
For security purposes, it’s recommended to restrict the usage of your API key. Click on the “Restrict Key” button and set restrictions based on your needs. You can restrict the key by IP address, referrer, or even by API.
Conclusion:
Obtaining Google API keys from the Search Console is a straightforward process that involves creating a project, enabling APIs, and creating credentials. By following these steps, you can easily integrate Google services into your web applications, enhancing their functionality and user experience.
Remember to keep your API keys secure and to follow Google’s best practices for API usage to avoid any issues with quota limits or security.
NOTE:
Apart from that, the API key has different uses for different purposes for Google Shopping, We need to enable different sets of the Library(Content API for Shopping). Similarly for the Google Maps, We need to enable a different set(Maps). For the Google Login, We don’t need to enable anything.
By following these steps, you can effectively access and utilize the Google Search Console API to extract essential data and gain deeper insights into your website’s search performance. Remember to stay updated with the Search Console API documentation for any changes or updates to the API’s functionality.
Do You Know?
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