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

# Google Gemini (BYOK)

> Connect your own Google API key to Workshop for direct Gemini model access.

## Overview

The Gemini BYOK connector lets you use your own Google API key with Workshop. Usage is billed directly by Google.

<Warning>
  **Published apps use your API key.** If you publish a Workshop app that uses this connector, visitors make requests using your key. You will be billed by Google for all usage.
</Warning>

<Info>
  **Don't have an API key?** The [managed Gemini connector](/connectors/managed-ai-connectors) is enabled by default — no API key needed, usage billed to your Workshop credits.
</Info>

## What You'll Need

| Credential         | Description                      | Format    |
| ------------------ | -------------------------------- | --------- |
| **Google API Key** | API key for Google Gemini access | `AIza...` |

## Getting an API Key

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open Google AI Studio">
    Go to [aistudio.google.com/app/apikey](https://aistudio.google.com/app/apikey) and sign in with your Google account.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Create a key">
    Click **Create API key**. Select an existing Google Cloud project or create a new one.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Copy the key">
    Copy your API key immediately. It starts with `AIza` followed by a string of characters. While you can view keys again in Google AI Studio, store it securely right away.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Connecting to Workshop

<Steps>
  <Step title="Open the Hub">
    Open the **Workshop Hub** from the sidebar.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Go to Connectors">
    Click the **Connectors** tab.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Gemini">
    Click the **Gemini (your API key)** card.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Enter details">
    Enter a **Connection Name** (e.g., "My Gemini API") and paste your **Google API Key**.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Save">
    Click **Add Connection**.
  </Step>
</Steps>

Your Gemini connection is now active and available across all conversations.

## Verifying Your Connection

Ask Workshop:

```
Use Gemini to explain the concept of machine learning in simple terms
```

If Workshop returns a Gemini-generated response, your connection is working.

## Security Best Practices

* Your API key is stored in Workshop's encrypted storage — never shared with the AI agent directly
* Restrict your key in the [Google Cloud Console](https://console.cloud.google.com/apis/credentials): limit it to only the Generative Language API and add IP or referrer restrictions if needed
* If you suspect a key is compromised, delete it in [Google AI Studio](https://aistudio.google.com/app/apikey) and create a new one

<Warning>
  **Free tier data usage:** Content processed through the free tier may be used by Google to improve their products. If you're working with sensitive data, consider using a paid tier.
</Warning>

## Troubleshooting

| Issue               | Solution                                                                                       |
| ------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| "API key not valid" | Verify the full key was copied and starts with `AIza`. Check it hasn't been deleted.           |
| "Permission denied" | Check API restrictions in Google Cloud Console. Ensure the Generative Language API is enabled. |
| "Quota exceeded"    | Wait for limits to reset or upgrade your tier. Monitor usage in the Cloud Console.             |

## Learn More

* [Google AI Studio](https://aistudio.google.com/)
* [Gemini API Documentation](https://ai.google.dev/docs)
* [API Key Best Practices](https://ai.google.dev/gemini-api/docs/api-key)
* [Pricing and Rate Limits](https://ai.google.dev/pricing)