# Authentication

Your Airgate account has two modes of operation: sandbox mode and live mode.

#### Sandbox mode.

&#x20;There is no actual money involved in this mode. Only our [<mark style="color:red;">test cards</mark>](https://airgate.ng/test-cards) are available for use. But the majority of API features remain the same, and you will continue to receive email alerts and web hooks from us.&#x20;

#### Live mode

This mode involves real money, transactions, and effects. Only switch to this mode after you’ve tested your integration thoroughly.

{% hint style="info" %}
You can easily switch between modes by clicking on the toggle button at the top right side of the header. The Airgate API keys shown will also change when you switch between modes. These API keys will be utilized for authentication purpose during integrations, hence why it is very important to not disclose them to untrusted parties.

{% endhint %}

<figure><img src="https://1225789828-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FaeIrPvKOhpbg5p9uN4ip%2Fuploads%2FXFU4FpcSu4SYACihyClY%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=b9d82859-d601-41cb-9b59-1377f0afd6c8" alt=""><figcaption><p>Airgate Get Started Screen</p></figcaption></figure>
