# Get a key

> Create a Build account, choose what a key can reach, and keep it in your tool's secrets.

> **No account connected yet?**
>
> The sandbox key works before you connect anything. It is read-only and returns demo data in the same shape as a live key.

## Before you start

You need a Build account. The Free plan has one account and a sandbox key. Keys come in two kinds: `sm_live_…` for your connected accounts and `sm_test_…` for the sandbox.

## Create a key

1. **Sign in to the console**

   Open the [console](https://build.sellermate.ai/console) and sign in. A new workspace starts on the Free plan.
2. **Connect an account**

   Connect Amazon or Google Ads from the console. Skip this step if you only want the sandbox key.
3. **Open Keys and name the key**

   Name it after what will use it, for example `monday-report`.
4. **Choose what it can reach**

   Pick the accounts the key may read, and whether it is read, or read and write. Writes exist on Amazon only.
5. **Copy it into your tool's secrets**

   Store it as `BUILD_API_KEY`. Your prompts and code then never contain the key itself.

_To write: screenshots: the console Keys screen, the new-key dialog with the account and scope choices, and where the sandbox key is shown. Say whether the key is shown once._

## Use the sandbox key

The console quickstart shows the sandbox key. It is read-only and returns demo data, so you can build before you connect an account.

## Keep the key safe

- Keep it in your tool's secrets, never in page code or in a prompt.
- Give each tool or client its own key, so you can revoke one without touching the rest.
- Choose read unless the tool needs to change an Amazon account.

Scopes, revoking and rotation are in [Keys and scopes](https://build.sellermate.ai/docs/guides/keys-and-scopes.md).

## Next steps

- [First call in 60 seconds](https://build.sellermate.ai/docs/get-started/first-call.md): Send a request with your key and read the answer.
- [Build with your AI](https://build.sellermate.ai/docs/build-with-your-ai/claude-code.md): Paste a prompt and let your AI tool write the code.