access key

USAGE SUMMARY

"access key" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a piece of information that gives you access or entry into a certain system or program. For example, "The company provided us with an access key to the customer database."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Registration and access key required.

The Guardian

You must also choose an authentication system, such as WPA2-Personal and an access key.

The Guardian - Tech

The most useful access key to analog-form items is subject.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We also wanted to make it simpler to access key information for you, out there in the real world – as clear and open as we could make it.

The Guardian

Postal workers later told police the envelope had never been posted, and had been placed in the box by someone who had an access key.

The Guardian

And at hotels, obtain an access key before using the wireless connection, he said, to ensure it is not "sponsored by the person in the room next door".

The New York Times

The police communications network was showcased by George Osborne in his autumn statement as enabling officers to access key databases, to take electronic fingerprints and witness statements, and to stream live body-mounted video while on the move.

The Guardian

But a nebulous fear of an imagined Big Brother prevents citizens in many places from adopting a smart-chip-based access key that would afford them secure online transactions.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Variables tested were submitting country, manuscript category, open access, key-words, topics, number of author, and H-index of first and last author.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

The multi-access key works somewhat like the search function of the Plants of Wisconsin, although the interface is considerably different, and characters can be added at any time during the identification process.

AoB PLANTS

For the Stream, into each iPhone or iPad, you have to type your Media Access Key: a long string of numbers that's unique to your TiVo.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "access key" in technical documentation, clearly define what systems or resources the key unlocks to prevent confusion.

Common error

Avoid assuming that an "access key" grants universal access. Clearly specify the limitations and permissions associated with the key to prevent unauthorized use or security breaches.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "access key" primarily functions as a compound noun. It identifies a specific type of key that provides entry or permission to a system, resource, or location. Ludwig AI confirms that "access key" is correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "access key" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe a credential or mechanism that grants entry or authorization. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted and used across various contexts, including news, science, and business. It's essential to define its scope clearly to avoid misunderstandings about the permissions granted. When writing, specifying what the "access key" unlocks is vital. The term sees frequent use in News & Media and Science contexts, indicating its relevance in both technological discussions and practical applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key to entry

Rephrases the original term by flipping the structure and using a synonym of access.

security credential

Focuses specifically on the security aspect, emphasizing the validation required for entry.

authentication code

Highlights the authentication process involved in gaining access.

entry code

Directly refers to the code required for entry, simplifying the concept.

gateway

Emphasizes the role of a passage or means to access something else.

password

A common method used to ensure system security.

means of access

Highlights the method or tool used to gain entry.

critical information

Emphasizes the importance of the information for achieving a goal.

essential element

Refers to a necessary component for accessing something.

point of entry

Refers to a specific location or method for gaining access.

FAQs

How is "access key" used in the context of APIs?

In the context of APIs, an "access key" is often used as a credential to authenticate and authorize requests to the API. It verifies the identity of the application making the request and ensures that it has permission to access the requested resources.

What are some alternatives to using an "access key" for authentication?

Alternatives to using an "access key" for authentication include using OAuth tokens, API keys, or certificate-based authentication. The choice depends on the security requirements and the architecture of the system.

Is there a difference between an "access key" and a password?

Yes, while both provide access, an "access key" is typically used for automated systems or applications, whereas a password is used by human users. They serve different purposes and have different security considerations.

How can I ensure the security of my "access key"?

To ensure the security of your "access key", store it securely, avoid hardcoding it in your application, and use environment variables or secure configuration management systems. Additionally, rotate the key regularly and monitor its usage for any suspicious activity.