Connecting your OKX exchange account to a third-party trading platform can significantly enhance your trading efficiency, automate strategies, and streamline portfolio management. This guide walks you through the complete process of enabling futures trading on OKX, generating a secure API key, and successfully linking your spot and futures accounts to a trading automation tool. Whether you're new to crypto trading or expanding your automated setup, this step-by-step tutorial ensures a smooth integration.
Enable Futures Trading on OKX
Before creating an API key, you must first activate futures trading on your OKX account. Without this step, your futures positions won't appear in external platforms—even after successful API connection.
Step 1: Log in to Your OKX Account
Visit OKX's official website and sign in. If you don’t have an account yet, complete registration and verify your identity.
👉 Learn how to securely connect your exchange with advanced trading tools.
Step 2: Switch to Futures Trading Mode
Once logged in:
- Look for the "Trade" section and select "Futures".
- You’ll be prompted to confirm your trading experience. After confirmation, click "Switch Trading Mode".
- If already in futures mode, click the Settings (⚙️) icon at the top right.
Step 3: Select Your Futures Trading Level
OKX offers multiple risk and leverage tiers based on user experience. Choose the level that matches your knowledge and risk tolerance. This setting affects available leverage and margin options.
Step 4: Confirm Your Selection
Review the terms and confirm your choice. Once confirmed, futures trading is enabled on your account—proceed to API creation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why can’t I see my OKX Futures account after connecting?
A: This usually happens if futures trading isn’t activated on your OKX account. Make sure to complete the "Switch Trading Mode" process before generating API keys.
Q: Is it safe to connect my OKX API to third-party platforms?
A: Yes, as long as you follow security best practices—enable 2FA, use strong passwords, and only grant necessary permissions (like trading access without withdrawal rights).
Q: Can I use the same API key for both spot and futures trading?
A: Yes. A single API key with trading permissions can manage both spot and futures accounts on OKX when connected to supported platforms.
Generate an OKX API Key
With futures enabled, you’re ready to create a secure API key for integration.
Step 1: Access the API Management Page
- After logging in, hover over your profile icon in the top-right corner.
- Click "API" from the dropdown menu.
Step 2: Create a New API Key (V5)
- Click the "+ Create API Key V5" button.
- This version supports enhanced functionality and better compatibility with trading bots and portfolio managers.
Step 3: Configure Your API Key
Fill in the following fields:
- API Key Name: Assign a recognizable name (e.g., "3Commas Integration").
- API Password: Enter the password you set during account creation or funding. You’ll need this later when connecting externally—store it securely.
Step 4: Select Application (Optional)
From the application dropdown, choose "3Commas" if available. This pre-configures optimal permissions and simplifies setup on their platform.
Step 5: Set Permissions
Ensure the following permission is enabled:
- ✅ Trade (Enable Spot & Futures Trading)
⚠️ Do not enable "Withdrawal" permissions. For security reasons, never allow fund withdrawals via API keys used for automation.
Step 6: Complete 2FA Verification
Enter your two-factor authentication (2FA) code from your authenticator app or SMS, then click "Confirm".
Step 7: Save Your API Credentials
After creation, OKX displays:
- API Key
- Secret Key
- Passphrase
👉 Securely generate and manage your API keys for automated trading workflows.
Important: Copy these details immediately and store them in a secure password manager. The secret key will not be shown again for security reasons.
Connect OKX to a Trading Automation Platform
Now that your API is ready:
- Go to your preferred trading automation platform (e.g., portfolio tracker or bot service).
- Navigate to Accounts > Connect New Exchange.
- Select OKX from the exchange list.
- Paste your API Key, Secret Key, and Passphrase.
- Confirm connection.
The system will automatically detect both OKX Spot and OKX Futures accounts if futures trading is enabled.
Best Practices for API Security
To protect your funds while using API integrations:
- Always enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on your OKX account.
- Restrict IP access if possible—whitelist only trusted server IPs.
- Regularly rotate API keys (recreate every few months).
- Monitor API activity logs within your OKX account dashboard.
- Avoid sharing API credentials via email or messaging apps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I do if I lose my API secret key?
A: You cannot recover a lost secret key. You’ll need to delete the old key and generate a new one to maintain security.
Q: Why does the platform ask for my API password?
A: Some platforms require your account’s passphrase (not login password) to authenticate encrypted API requests. It’s never stored in plain text by reputable services.
Q: Can I revoke API access remotely?
A: Yes. Log into OKX, go to API Management, find the key, and click "Delete" to instantly disable access.
Final Steps and Verification
After connecting:
- Check that both spot balances and open futures positions are visible.
- Run a small test trade to confirm execution capability.
- Set up alerts or notifications for trade confirmations.
Your automated trading environment is now live with full OKX integration.
👉 Maximize your trading potential with secure, seamless exchange connectivity.
By following this guide, you’ve successfully enabled futures trading, generated a secure API key, and connected your OKX account to a powerful trading platform. With proper configuration and security habits, you’re well-equipped to manage both spot and derivatives markets efficiently.
Keep your keys safe, monitor performance regularly, and explore advanced strategies like grid bots or DCA plans using your newly connected account.