Security

What Is Credential Rotation?

The practice of periodically replacing API keys and secrets used by an AI agent, limiting the damage window if a key is compromised.

In Plain English

Credential rotation means regularly generating new API keys and replacing old ones. If a key is compromised, the window of exposure is limited to the rotation period — not forever.

For AI agents, this applies to LLM provider keys (Anthropic, OpenAI), MCP server credentials, and any external API keys the agent uses. Without rotation, a leaked key from six months ago is still valid today.

OpenClaw with Clawctl makes rotation seamless. Update the key in the dashboard, and the agent picks it up on the next restart or redeploy. No code changes, no manual configuration file edits.

Why It Matters for OpenClaw

API keys get leaked through logs, error messages, screenshots, and compromised systems. Rotation ensures that leaked keys expire quickly, limiting blast radius. Many compliance frameworks (SOC 2, PCI-DSS) require regular key rotation.

How Clawctl Helps

Clawctl provides a secure key management interface. Update keys through the dashboard — they are encrypted with AES-256 and injected at runtime. The agent redeploys automatically with the new key. Old keys are never stored.

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Common Questions

How often should I rotate keys?

Best practice is every 90 days. Immediately if you suspect a compromise.

Does rotation cause downtime?

Minimal. The agent redeploys with the new key in under 60 seconds.

Can I automate rotation?

Update keys via the Clawctl API for automated rotation workflows.