How to Connect an Exchange Using an API Key

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Connecting your cryptocurrency exchange to a trading platform is a crucial step for automating trades, managing portfolios, and maximizing efficiency. Whether you're new to algorithmic trading or expanding your multi-exchange strategy, understanding how to securely link an exchange via API keys ensures seamless integration and control. This guide walks you through the entire process with clear, step-by-step instructions.

Why Use API Keys to Connect an Exchange?

API (Application Programming Interface) keys allow third-party platforms like trading bots or portfolio managers to interact with your exchange account—without sharing your login credentials. When used correctly, API keys offer secure, limited access that enables functions like placing trades, checking balances, and retrieving market data.

Key benefits include:

👉 Discover how secure API integrations can boost your trading performance today.

Step 1: Open the Connect Account Window

Before entering any credentials, navigate to the correct section of your trading platform.

If This Is Your First Exchange

Go to the My Portfolio page under the Exchanges tab, then click the Connect Exchange button. This launches the account setup modal.

If You’ve Already Linked an Exchange

Simply click the Connect a New Account button. The system will prompt you to add another exchange without disrupting existing connections.

Step 2: Select the Exchanges Option

Once in the connection interface, look for the Exchanges button and click it. This filters out wallet connectors or third-party services, focusing only on centralized exchanges such as Binance, Bybit, OKX, and others.

Step 3: Choose Your Preferred Exchange

A list of supported exchanges will appear. You can use the built-in filter to narrow results by trading type:

For example, if you're planning leveraged positions, filter for exchanges supporting futures. In this walkthrough, we’ll use Binance US as our example—but the steps apply universally.

Step 4: Assign a Clear Account Name

Naming your connection wisely helps avoid confusion later, especially when managing multiple accounts across different platforms.

Instead of generic labels like “Main Account,” try descriptive names such as:

This name appears across all features—trading terminal, bot configurations, performance reports, and history logs—so clarity matters.

Step 5: Enter Your API Key and Secret

Now comes the core of the setup: inputting your API credentials.

🔐 Security Tip: Always keep your API secret private. Never share it or enter it on untrusted websites.

To make this easier:

  1. Open two browser windows—one logged into your exchange, the other on the trading platform.
  2. Copy your API Key and API Secret directly from the exchange’s API management page.
  3. Paste them into the corresponding fields.

⚠️ Do not attempt to connect the same API key more than once. Duplicate connections may cause errors or unexpected behavior.

Need help generating these keys? Click the "Full Guide" button at the top of the modal window. It redirects to a detailed tutorial tailored to your selected exchange.

👉 Learn how top traders manage multiple exchange APIs efficiently.

Optional Field: Enter Passphrase (If Required)

Some exchanges, including OKX and FTX (before shutdown), require a passphrase during API creation.

Important notes:

Double-check your exchange’s documentation to confirm whether a passphrase was set.

Optional Field: Enter Customer ID (Exchange-Specific)

A few platforms ask for a Customer ID or account identifier. This typically refers to your user ID within the exchange ecosystem.

If you don’t see this field in the form, your exchange doesn’t require it. Only fill it in if explicitly prompted.

Step 6: Confirm and Connect

Once all required fields are completed:

The system validates your credentials instantly. On success, you’ll be redirected to a confirmation screen.

Step 7: Select Account Types (If Applicable)

Certain exchanges—like Bybit or KuCoin—support multiple account types under one API connection:

You’ll be asked to choose which ones you want to link. Select only those you plan to use for trading or monitoring, then click Add.

This granular control prevents accidental trades on inactive accounts and improves organization.

Step 8: Success — Your Exchange Is Connected!

After connection, you’ll land on the exchange statistic page. Here, you can:

Your API connection remains active until manually removed or revoked on the exchange side.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it safe to connect my exchange using an API key?

Yes—when done properly. Always restrict API permissions to "Trade" and "Read" only. Avoid enabling "Withdrawals" unless absolutely necessary, and use IP whitelisting if available.

Q: Can I connect the same API key to multiple platforms?

No. Reusing the same API key across services increases security risks and may lead to conflicts in order execution or balance syncing.

Q: What should I do if my connection fails?

Double-check:

Q: How do I disconnect or remove an exchange?

Navigate to your account settings, find the connected exchange, and select "Remove." For full security, also delete the API key from your exchange dashboard.

Q: Does connecting via API cost money?

No. API access itself is free on most major exchanges. However, trading fees still apply based on your activity and fee tier.

Q: Which exchanges support API connections?

Most major platforms do—including Binance, Bybit, OKX, Kraken, KuCoin, and Coinbase Advanced Trade. Always verify support before setup.

Core Keywords for Search Visibility

To align with common search queries and improve discoverability, this guide naturally integrates the following SEO keywords:

These terms reflect high-intent searches from users looking to optimize their trading workflows securely and efficiently.

👉 See how professional traders leverage API-powered tools for smarter decisions.