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

# Environment Variables

> Configure environment variables for the Archetype AI platform.

The Archetype AI Python client uses environment variables for authentication and API configuration.

## Required Variables

### ATAI\_API\_KEY

Your unique API key for authenticating with the Archetype platform.

```bash theme={"system"}
export ATAI_API_KEY="your_api_key_here"
```

To obtain an API key, contact [support@archetypeai.dev](mailto:support@archetypeai.dev).

### ATAI\_API\_ENDPOINT

The API endpoint URL for the Archetype platform.

```bash theme={"system"}
export ATAI_API_ENDPOINT="https://api.u1.archetypeai.app"
```

<Note>
  If you're using the default Archetype platform, this variable is typically pre-configured. Only set this if you've been provided with a specific endpoint.
</Note>

## Setting Environment Variables

Add the following to your shell configuration file (`~/.bashrc`, `~/.zshrc`, or similar):

```bash theme={"system"}
export ATAI_API_KEY="your_api_key_here"
export ATAI_API_ENDPOINT="https://api.u1.archetypeai.app"
```

Then reload your shell:

```bash theme={"system"}
source ~/.bashrc  # or ~/.zshrc
```

## Verifying Configuration

To verify your environment variables are set correctly:

```bash theme={"system"}
echo $ATAI_API_KEY
echo $ATAI_API_ENDPOINT
```

Both should display the values you configured.