How to get an OpenAI API key
VNTranslator can use OpenAI models for translation. To connect, you need a Secret API key from the OpenAI Developer Platform (not from the ChatGPT website).
Important: ChatGPT billing is separate
ChatGPT subscriptions (Plus/Business/Enterprise/Edu) and API usage are billed separately. Make sure you are managing billing on platform.openai.com.
Step 1: Sign in to the OpenAI Developer Platform
Open platform.openai.com and sign in. You may be asked to verify email/phone depending on your account status.
Step 2: Create a new secret key
- Go to the API keys page: platform.openai.com/account/api-keys
- Click Create new secret key.
- Optionally set permissions (All / Restricted / Read Only) depending on your security needs.
- Copy the key and store it in a password manager. You may only be shown the full key once.
Do not share your key
Anyone with your key can use your quota. Never paste it into public GitHub repos, screenshots, or logs. If leaked, revoke it immediately and create a new one.
Step 3: Set spending controls (recommended)
- Enable billing / add a payment method in the API platform if required.
- Set usage alerts or budgets per project to avoid surprises.
- Start with a small test before translating large files.
Use the key in VNTranslator
- Open the Translator page.
- Select OpenAI as your translation service/model.
- Paste the key into the OpenAI API Key field.
- Run a short translation to confirm everything works.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
| Authentication error | Make sure you copied the full key. If needed, revoke it on the API keys page and create a new one. |
| Quota / billing errors | Check billing settings on the API platform and confirm you have an active payment method / credits. |
| Unexpected cost | Use smaller batches, choose a cheaper model, and set project budgets/alerts. |