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Step-by-step setup

Before picking an integration, start by asking: What do I want my app to do?

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Think problem-first, not tool-first.

Examples:
  • Send welcome emails to new users
  • Sync your CRM with a company database
  • Alert your team when someone submits a form
  • Automatically generate content with AI
  • Pull or update data from external services

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Two ways to use integrations in Base44

Once you know your goal, there are two main ways to add integrations:

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Where to find your API key

Many integrations require an API key to authenticate your app with the external service.

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To get your API key:

  1. Log into the external service (e.g. OpenAI, Resend, Notion)
  2. Find the Developer settings or API section
  3. Click “Create Key” or “Generate Token”
  4. Copy the key

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To store it in Base44:

  • Paste it into the prompt when asked
  • Or go to Dashboard → Secrets and save it securely
Never share your API key publicly. Treat it like a password.

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Why can’t the AI just do this for me?

While Base44’s AI can set up the logic and API requests for your integration, it can’t automatically connect to your third-party accounts. That’s a good thing because it keeps your data safe. Most services (like OpenAI, Notion, Stripe, etc.) require you to manually provide an API key to prove you own the account and give permission.
Think of your API key like a secure backstage pass. You create it, Base44 uses it behind the scenes, but it’s never visible to anyone else.
Once entered, your key is stored safely in Dashboard → Secrets so your app can use it without exposing it.
Troubleshooting tip: If an integration isn’t working, double-check that your key is saved correctly in Secrets.

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Don’t forget backend functions

Most integrations rely on Backend Functions (BF) to securely run server-side code.
ScenarioDo I need to enable BF manually?
Using a Ready-Made Integration❌ No. Backend functions are enabled automatically
Using an Instant Integration✅ Yes, you must enable it in App Settings → Enable Backend Functions

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Test your integration before going live

  • Use sandbox/test mode (e.g. Stripe test keys)
  • Try real user flows and edge cases
  • Validate input/output structure
  • Monitor integration credit usage
  • Preview the app and test:
    • Loading behavior
    • Failed API calls
    • Response content

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Quickchecklist

  • I know what I want my app to do
  • I picked the right integration type (Ready-Made or Instant)
  • I added my API key
  • Backend Functions are enabled (for Instant)
  • I tested my app before going live

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Common pitfalls to avoid

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Setup mistakes

  • Not using a Base44 Builder Plan or higher
  • Backend Functions not enabled
  • API keys not saved in Dashboard → Secrets

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External service errors

  • No credits or billing active in external service (e.g. OpenAI, Resend)
  • Using test credentials in production
  • Your service plan doesn’t support this feature

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Integration logic failures

  • Invalid payloads
  • Wrong API endpoint
  • Missing required parameters
  • Hitting rate limits

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Quality assurance gaps

  • ❌ Not testing real flows
  • ❌ Not checking app behavior after integration
  • ❌ Ignoring error responses

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Need more help?