> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.lynq.am/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# API keys and environments

> Use test and live keys safely in the right environment.

# API keys and environments

Test and live environments have separate API keys, payment-method connections, Payment Intents, and webhook endpoints.

| Key             | Prefix | Use it in                           |
| --------------- | ------ | ----------------------------------- |
| Secret key      | `sk_`  | Server-side Lynq API requests only. |
| Publishable key | `pk_`  | Browser Checkout configuration.     |

Create and manage keys in Lynq Dashboard. Start with test keys, then create live keys after completing the [go-live checklist](/go-live/checklist).

## Keep credentials safe

* Store secret keys in server-side secret storage.
* Never commit keys or send a secret key to the browser.
* Pair a publishable key with a Payment Intent client secret from the same environment.
* Replace or revoke a key if you believe it was exposed.

<Warning>
  A client secret grants access to one checkout session. Do not log, persist, or put it in a URL.
</Warning>


## Related topics

- [Support](/resources/support.md)
- [Test your integration](/go-live/testing.md)
- [Idram](/payment-methods/idram.md)
- [Card payments](/payment-methods/card.md)
- [API reference](/reference/api.md)