> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.wavix.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Getting started

> Step-by-step Wavix API onboarding: prerequisites, authentication, versioning, and first calls.

## Prerequisites

* Before you can use the Wavix API, you need to [create a Wavix account](/getting-started/create-account).
* You also need to [create or get your API key](/api-reference/authentication).

<Note>
  Sandbox accounts can use the API before they select an account level. Some features and endpoints aren't available. For details, see [Sandbox](/getting-started/sandbox).
</Note>

## Versioning

All endpoints and examples are designated with a specific version. Versions vary per endpoint and are not global.

Endpoint versions follow the base URL and come before the endpoint. For example:

```http theme={null}
https://api.wavix.com/v3/messages
```

This example shows the v3 endpoint for [sending messages](/api-reference/sms-and-mms/send-message).

<Tip>
  For new projects, use the latest version. If you have existing integrations on v1, plan to migrate to v3 for full feature support and future compatibility.
</Tip>

## Authentication

Wavix APIs use API keys for secure authentication. You must include your API key in every request to access all endpoints.

### How to use your API key

1. Retrieve your API key from your Wavix account (see [Get your API key](/api-reference/authentication#get-your-api-key)).
2. Include your API key in the `Authorization` header using Bearer token format.

Example request:

```http theme={null}
GET https://api.wavix.com/v3/messages
Authorization: Bearer your_api_key
```

Replace `your_api_key` with your actual API key.

<Tip>
  Keep your API key confidential. Do not share it or expose it in public repositories, client-side code, or unsecured environments.
</Tip>

If your API key is compromised, revoke it immediately in your Wavix account and generate a new one. For detailed authentication instructions and code examples, see the [Authentication guide](/api-reference/authentication).

## Next steps

* Explore the API reference for available endpoints and usage details.
* Review guides for specific messaging use cases:
  * [Send an SMS message](/messaging/send-sms)
  * [10DLC API](/messaging/10dlc-api)
* Subscribe to webhooks to receive real-time updates on your account and messaging events.
* Start building and testing your integration using your API key.