# Using your API key

The preferred method to authenticate with your API key is through the use of an apikey submitted as part of the HTTP header for the request. 

Examples for authentication are provided through some simple CURL requests using the Resource Information Network Services

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="HTTP Header" %}
{% code overflow="wrap" %}

```sh
curl -i --verbose --location 'https://api.scicrunch.io/elastic/v1/_cat/aliases' --header 'apikey: <<YOUR API KEY>>'
```

{% endcode %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="URL Query Paramter" %}
{% code overflow="wrap" %}

```sh
curl -i --verbose --location 'https://api.scicrunch.io/elastic/v1/_cat/aliases?key=<<YOUR API KEY>>'
```

{% endcode %}
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

{% hint style="info" %}

## Best Practice

Use the apikey HTTP header for authentication
{% endhint %}