Use Custom OpenAI API Key

What a Custom OpenAI API Key Is

• A secret token issued by OpenAI that identifies your account to the OpenAI API.
• Used in the Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY HTTP header for every API request.
• Controls which models you can access and where usage is billed.

When to Use Your Own Key

• Building your own tools, scripts, or integrations around ChatGPT.
• Connecting external apps (e.g., TheBrain, local scripts) directly to OpenAI.
• When you want clear, account‑level tracking of token usage and cost.

Security Guidelines

• Treat the key like a password – never share it publicly or check it into Git.
• Store it in a password manager, environment variable, or secure config file.
• Rotate/regenerate the key if you suspect it has been exposed.
• Use server‑side code (not in-browser JavaScript) when possible so the key is not shipped to end users.

App‑Specific Notes

• Use this thought to record how your specific tools or scripts expect the key to be configured.
• Example fields to document:
  • Where to paste the key in the app
  • Which model(s) are allowed
  • Any rate‑limit or budget rules you want to enforce