# Nova AI - Authentication

Nova AI uses API keys to authenticate requests.

## API Key Format

Nova AI API keys are 64-character strings starting with `nova_`.

```
nova_1234567890abcdef1234567890abcdef1234567890abcdef1234567890ab
```

## Making Requests

Include your API key in the `Authorization` header as a Bearer token:

```bash
Authorization: Bearer nova_your_api_key_here
```

### curl Example

```bash
curl -X POST https://novaaiapi.nabzclan.vip/v1/chat/completions \
  -H "Authorization: Bearer nova_your_api_key_here" \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -d '{"model": "nova_1_1", "messages": [{"role": "user", "content": "Hello!"}]}'
```

## Security Best Practices

1. **Keep keys secure**: Do not share them or commit them to version control.
2. **Use environment variables**: Store keys in `.env` files.
3. **Rotate keys**: Regular rotation minimizes risk.
4. **Monitor usage**: Check the dashboard for unauthorized activity.

For full documentation, visit: https://nova-ai.nabzclan.vip/user/developer/docs/authentication