This page covers connecting a centralized exchange (CEX) where you connect through an API key that you create. The key lets Liquid Edge trade the account on your behalf, and nothing more. For the full click-by-click steps, follow the Quickstart walkthrough.
Connecting a decentralized perpetuals DEX works differently — it uses an authorized trading wallet rather than an exchange API key. For that, see Connect Hyperliquid.
What an API key is#
An API key is a pair of credentials — a key and a secret — that an exchange issues so an outside application can act on your account within limits you set. You choose those limits when you create the key. Liquid Edge never sees your exchange password and never logs into your exchange as you; it only uses the key.
Permissions: enable these#
When creating the key, grant exactly two permissions:
- Read — so Liquid Edge can see your balances and open positions.
- Trade — so Liquid Edge can place and manage orders.
That is everything an automated strategy needs.
Permissions: never enable this#
- Withdraw — never enable it. Liquid Edge does not need it and does not request it. A trading connection never needs the ability to move your money. If any tool asks you to enable withdrawal access, treat it as a red flag and stop.
Handling your keys safely#
- The secret is shown only once, when the key is created. Save it immediately and store it like a password.
- Never share your keys with anyone.
- You can revoke a key from your exchange at any time — doing so instantly cuts off all access.
Connection guides#
- Centralized exchanges (CEX) — follow the steps above for any supported centralized venue, or the Quickstart walkthrough for a full click-by-click guide.
- Decentralized perp DEX — Connect Hyperliquid, which uses an authorized trading wallet instead of an API key.
For the complete trust model, read the Security Model.