Google Maps – how to generate an API key and add it to your website?

More and more businesses and web developers are incorporating Google Maps into their projects. Google Maps is one of the tools that enhance user experience. However, to take full advantage of its powerful features, generating an API key (Application Programming Interface) is required.

An API key is essential for authentication and enables maps to be displayed on websites and mobile applications. In this article, we will explore the process of generating a Google Maps API key and adding it to a website.

What is an API key?

Definition

An API key (Application Programming Interface) is a unique authorization code that grants access to specific services or resources offered by an API. It serves as an identifier that verifies the user’s identity and permissions, allowing them to utilize the available functionalities of the programming interface.

Google Maps API key – what is it used for?

A Google Maps API key is a special authorization key that grants access to services and features provided by the Google Maps API. It is used to identify and authorize a website or application that wants to integrate Google Maps. The Google Maps API key is essential for embedding Google Maps on a website and enables the creation of interactive maps, location services, navigation, and other geolocation-based features.

Registering a new API key for Google Maps

Logging in to your account

The first step in registering a new Google Maps API key is logging in to the developer platform. You can use an existing Google account or create a new one.

Configuring Google Maps cloud

After logging into your Google account, click “Get Started” and proceed with setting up your account. You will need to fill in essential details, including contact and billing information. Once completed and saved, you should receive your API key.

Configuring the API key

Next, you need to specify the purpose for which you will use the API key. To do this, click “Configure Consent Screen” and select the user type in the displayed field.

Restricting access

The next step is to return to the credentials screen and access the API key settings. At this stage, you can specify who can use your API key. Restricting access to your website only is an essential step in securing the key from unauthorized use. If you select access for websites only, adding “/*” after the domain name will ensure that the API key works on all subpages.

Obtaining the API key

The key has now been successfully configured and is ready for use. Simply click the “Show Key” button and copy the displayed content.

Adding the API key to a website

Coding

After obtaining the Google Maps API key, you need to implement it on your website. This requires adding the appropriate code to your site. You can do this by modifying your theme settings or using a dedicated ACF Pro field.

WP Go Maps plugin

There is also an easier way to implement Google Maps on your website. You can use the WP Go Maps plugin. To use WP Google Maps with an API key, follow these steps:

1. Install the plugin on your WordPress website.
2. Go to the plugin settings and paste your Google Maps API key into the appropriate configuration field.
3. Once set up, you can create and customize maps using the plugin’s interface on your website.

In the settings, you can customize various aspects, such as:

• Shortcode – Allows you to place the map anywhere on your website.
• Map name – The name of your map.
• Zoom level – The zoom level of the map.
• Width – The width of the map in pixels.
• Height – The height of the map in pixels.

Not sure what a plugin is? Check out our article:

WordPress basics: what are plugins?

One of the greatest advantages of WordPress is its plugins. They are a multitude of additional tools that allow users to enhance their websites.

read more

Summary

When generating an API key and integrating it into a website, it’s important to use tools and plugins that simplify the process. For WordPress users, plugins like “WP Google Maps” can significantly speed up and simplify the setup. Keep in mind that the API key is a crucial element for any website or application that wants to use Google Maps. It allows you to leverage all the features offered by Google Maps while protecting your key from misuse.