# Introduction

**Kadindexer** is an open-source API that provides efficient access to the **Kadena blockchain** — including transactions, token balances, and contract events. It offers a simple way for developers to integrate blockchain data into their applications **without running a full Kadena node**.

Kadindexer exposes a **GraphQL API** that lets you query blockchain data on demand — from block details to token transfers — making it ideal for building **wallets, block explorers, analytics dashboards**, and more.

Its architecture is designed for **flexibility**. You can use Kadindexer as a plug-and-play API out of the box or extend it to support more advanced use cases. Because it’s fully open-source, you can also customize and scale it to match your specific requirements.

## API Key

You’ll need an API key to access Kadindexer.
Get one for free from the [Kadindexer Dashboard](https://app.kadindexer.io/).
The free tier includes **10,000 requests per month**.

Follow the steps below to generate your key:

### Step 1: Log in with Google

Use your Google account to sign in to the dashboard.

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### Step 2: Go to API Management

Once logged in, click **Go to API Management** in the dashboard.

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### Step 3: Create an API Key

Click the **Create** button to generate a new API key.

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### Step 4: Name Your API Key

Enter a name for your key in the input field and click **Create**.

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### Step 5: View and Copy Your Key

You’ll now see your list of API keys. Use the copy icon to copy your key — you’ll need it for all API requests.
It’s a good idea to keep this page open while following the rest of this guide.

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## Quickstart

Once you have your API key, you can start interacting with Kadindexer.
Choose one of the following guides from the sidebar or the next pages to get started:

1. [Apollo](/guides/apollo) – Use a web-based GraphQL playground.
2. [Postman](/guides/postman) – Test queries with a desktop API client.
3. [Node.js](/guides/node-js) – Query Kadindexer directly from your code.