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

# Authentication

> Authentication patterns for Julep SDKs

# Authentication

Learn about different authentication methods and best practices when using Julep SDKs.

## API Key Authentication

### Basic Usage

```python theme={"dark"}
from julep import Client

client = Client(api_key="your_api_key")
```

### Environment Variables

```python theme={"dark"}
import os
from julep import Client

client = Client(api_key=os.environ.get("JULEP_API_KEY"))
```

## Advanced Authentication

### Custom Authentication Headers

```python theme={"dark"}
client = Client(
    api_key="your_api_key",
    headers={
        "X-Custom-Header": "value"
    }
)
```

### Multiple Environments

```python theme={"dark"}
class JulepConfig:
    def __init__(self, environment="production"):
        self.api_key = self._get_api_key(environment)
        self.base_url = self._get_base_url(environment)
    
    def create_client(self):
        return Client(
            api_key=self.api_key,
            base_url=self.base_url
        )
```

## Security Best Practices

1. Never hardcode API keys in your code
2. Use environment variables or secure vaults
3. Rotate API keys periodically
4. Use different API keys for different environments
5. Implement proper key management policies