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

# Authentication

> How to authenticate with the Steerco API

# Authentication

The Steerco API supports two authentication methods:

* **API Keys** — simple bearer tokens for scripts and integrations
* **OAuth 2.1** — automatic browser-based auth for MCP tools

## API Keys (Recommended for REST API)

API keys are the simplest way to authenticate with the REST API.

### Generating an API Key

1. Click your **avatar** in the top-right corner of the Steerco dashboard
2. Select **Manage Account**
3. Navigate to the **API Keys** tab
4. Click **Create API Key**, give it a name, and copy the key

API keys use the `ak_` prefix. Store your key securely — it won't be shown again.

### Using Your API Key

Include the API key as a Bearer token in all requests:

```bash theme={null}
curl -H "Authorization: Bearer ak_your_api_key" \
     https://api.getsteerco.com/v1/workspaces
```

API keys are scoped to your user account and have access to all workspaces where the API feature is enabled on the plan.

## OAuth 2.1 (Used by MCP)

For MCP tools like Claude Desktop and Cursor, authentication happens automatically via OAuth 2.1. You'll be prompted to sign in via browser on first connection. See the [MCP setup guides](/mcp/overview).

The REST API also accepts OAuth tokens if you prefer to use the OAuth flow programmatically:

```bash theme={null}
# Discover OAuth endpoints
curl https://api.getsteerco.com/.well-known/oauth-authorization-server
```

## Workspace Selection

Most endpoints require an `X-Workspace-Id` header. Call the workspaces endpoint first to find your available workspace IDs:

```bash theme={null}
# 1. List your workspaces
curl -H "Authorization: Bearer ak_your_api_key" \
     https://api.getsteerco.com/v1/workspaces

# 2. Use a workspace ID in subsequent requests
curl -H "Authorization: Bearer ak_your_api_key" \
     -H "X-Workspace-Id: YOUR_WORKSPACE_ID" \
     https://api.getsteerco.com/v1/presentations
```

## Plan Requirements

API access requires a plan with the API feature enabled. If you receive a `403` response, check your plan in the Steerco dashboard or contact support.