One of the things I love about using AWeber for my personal campaigns is how simple it is to setup a new account and get started using the tool right away. While there are certainly some features lacking (such as multiple email accounts and the inability to send messages to non-AWeber users), the simplicity of the sign-up process and the fact that it’s a free service make it a joy to use for occasional email campaigns.
Generating API Keys
Since AWeber is a web-based tool, all you need to do to get started is head over to the API Keys section of your dashboard. From there, you will be presented with a new API Key (as seen in the image above).
You can safely use this key to connect your AWeber account to various third-party apps and services, like MailChimp, ConvertKit, and HubSpot, which offer powerful integrations with the email marketing software. Just remember that if you use this key for any other service, you will have to delete the key and generate a new one.
Using Secret Keys
While API Keys are pretty self-explanatory, Secret Keys are a little more subtle. When you create a new secret key, you will be asked to enter a memorable phrase that will serve as a password for your account. This phrase will then be encoded using secret encryption software.
You can use a tool like 1Password or LastPass (my personal favorite) to create easy-to-remember phrases which are secure and can’t be easily guessed. Don’t worry, this phrase is never sent over the internet.
If you ever forget your password, you can follow the directions on the AWeber website to have your password emailed to you. In the event of a security breach, you can also have your secret key revoked and a new one generated.
Why Should You Use API Keys and Secret Keys?
With that being said, there are many reasons why you should use API Keys and Secret Keys with your AWeber account. Here are just a few:
- Easier to Remember
- Improved Security
- Flexibility
- Reduced Fraud
- More Trusted
- Improved Tracking
- More Engaged Users
- And More.
An Important Note About Google App Engine
If you’re reading this, I assume you’re using some sort of a web hosting service to host your site. Probably Google App Engine. That’s perfectly acceptable, and it’s a great service that I highly recommend. However, if you’re new to the platform, you should know that Google App Engine limits the number of free applications you can create. This is because Google App Engine provides free usage only for the first 50,000 transactions per day. So, if you go over this limit, you will need to pay for the usage of each app you create.
Further Reading
If you’re interested, you can check out the AWeber documentation for more detailed information on API keys and secret keys. Don’t hesitate to contact AWeber Support if you have any questions regarding the use or implications of these keys.