Connecting DeepSeek
This article covers obtaining a DeepSeek API key, fixing common errors, and keeping keys safe. Paste the key in Limb under Chatbot → AI Settings (see your AI Settings documentation for that flow).
Before you start: Register at DeepSeek’s platform and add balance or enable billing if the service requires it—API calls fail without sufficient quota or account verification.
Getting your DeepSeek API key
Work in the DeepSeek developer console:
- Open the platform — https://platform.deepseek.com/ and sign in.
- Account funding — top up or attach a payment method if your account type needs it so API calls are allowed.
- Create an API key — in the API keys section, create a new key and copy it immediately; follow any naming or scoped-key options the dashboard offers.
- Store safely — if the dashboard only shows the secret once, save it in a password manager; otherwise rotate and replace keys you no longer control.
Important: DeepSeek’s console labels and menus can change; use the live site for the exact path to “API keys” and current pricing.
Troubleshooting
Invalid API key
- Confirm the full key was pasted with no spaces or line breaks.
- Check the key is still valid and not deleted in the DeepSeek console.
- Ensure your account passed any required verification steps.
Insufficient balance / quota / rate limit
- Add balance or resolve billing holds in the platform.
- Review rate and daily limits in the dashboard; wait for windows to reset after spikes.
Was working, then stopped
- Check for rotated keys, account suspension, or policy notices from DeepSeek.
- Check DeepSeek’s own announcements or support channel if responses fail globally.
Security best practices
- Never publish keys, paste them in public tickets, or commit them to Git.
- Use separate keys per environment when the console allows it.
- Set spend alerts if DeepSeek provides them; review usage regularly.
- Revoke any key you believe is exposed and replace it in Limb.