Understanding the Initial API Key in FusionAuth and Its Implications
-
What is the purpose of the API key generated during the initial setup wizard? Is it used within the FusionAuth UI, and what are the implications of deleting it?
-
The initial API key created during setup is primarily intended for administrative use and API access. While it is not directly used within the FusionAuth UI, it can be used to authenticate API requests depending on the permissions granted to it.
Recommendations:
- Keep an API Key for Emergency Access: It is advisable to retain at least one API key for break glass reasons—for example, to regain access in case of authentication issues.
- API Usage: API keys are commonly used to interact with FusionAuth’s REST APIs for various authentication and management tasks.
What Happens If You Delete It?
- If no other API keys exist with sufficient permissions, API-based administrative access to FusionAuth will become unavailable.
- If your system relies on this API key for integrations or automation, those requests will fail.
To avoid disruptions, ensure that you have another valid API key with the necessary permissions before deleting the initial one.
-
W wesley has marked this topic as solved on