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Creating a Bitfinex API Key for Your Crypto Trading Bot

This guide walks you through setting up an API key on Bitfinex for automated trading. Follow these steps to ensure secure and efficient bot operation on your account.

Step-by-Step Guide​

  1. Log into Bitfinex: Access your Bitfinex account and verify that two-factor authentication (2FA) is enabled for enhanced security.

  2. Navigate to API Section: Find the 'API' section in your Bitfinex account settings (often located under your profile icon or in the main account menu). This area manages all your API connections.

  3. Initiate API Key Creation: Select 'Create New Key'. These credentials will serve as your bot's secure access point to your Bitfinex trading account.

  4. Label Your Key: Create a descriptive name (label) for your API key that clearly indicates its purpose (e.g., "Gunbot_Spot"). Clear labels help track and manage multiple API keys effectively.

Info

Bitfinex offers granular API permissions. Carefully review and select only the permissions your trading bot absolutely needs. The principle of least privilege is key to security.

  1. Set API Key Permissions: Configure essential permissions. For most trading bots, you will need to grant permissions for:

    • Account Info: 'Get account fee & info' (Read).
    • Orders: 'Create & cancel orders' (Write), 'Get open orders & order history' (Read).
    • Wallets: 'Get wallet balances & addresses' (Read).
    • Funding: Only if your bot manages margin funding, enable relevant 'Read' and 'Write' permissions for Funding (e.g., 'Offer, cancel and close funding'). Crucially, do NOT grant 'Withdraw' permissions (Account History: 'Create a new withdrawal').

  2. Secure Your API Key: Implement these security measures:

    • IP Whitelisting: Enable IP restrictions by adding your bot's static IP address(es).
    • Session Duration/Limits: Review and set any available trading limits or session duration controls if offered. These steps create multiple layers of security for your account.

  3. Finalize Your API Key: Review all granted permissions and verify security settings like IP restrictions. Complete any required 2FA verification to confirm the key creation. Once generated, carefully copy and store your API Key and API Secret in a secure location (e.g., a password manager or offline).

Bitfinex API key creation page showing permission settings and security options

Access your API settings directly through Bitfinex API Management.

A properly configured API key ensures smooth automated trading operations. Regularly auditing your API key settings helps maintain account safety. Remember to never share your API credentials and always use secure channels when setting up your trading bot.

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