# Authentication

The Analytics API uses API key authentication through the `X-API-KEY` header. This authentication method provides secure access to analytics endpoints for users with paid subscription plans.

## Obtaining an API Key

* **Have a paid subscription** - API access is not available for free plan users
* Get or create your Analytics API key on [Definest API page](https://definest.ai/api)

## API Key usage

Include your API key in the header for all Analytics API requests: `X-API-KEY`

```
curl -H "X-API-KEY: your_api_key_here"
```

## Rate Limits

The limit is currently set at **60 requests per minute** and **5k requests per day**.

If you reach the limit, request will return a 429 status code with an error for every request beyond the limit before it will be reset.