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Z.ai API Setup Guide

This guide explains how to set up and use Z.ai's API with your API key.

Getting Your API Key

  1. Visit Z.ai API Management
  2. Log in to your Z.ai account
  3. Navigate to the API Keys section
  4. Create a new API key if you don't have one yet

API Key Format

Z.ai uses a new key format that includes both a user ID and secret: 

{id}.{secret}

Important Security Notes:

  • Never share your API keys
  • Do not expose keys in browsers or client-side code
  • Leaked keys may be automatically regenerated for security
  • Store keys securely in environment variables or secure vaults

Setting Up Your Environment

Set your API key as an environment variable:

Linux/macOS: 

export ZAI_API_KEY="your-id.your-secret"

Windows (Command Prompt): 

set ZAI_API_KEY=your-id.your-secret

Windows (PowerShell): 

$env:ZAI_API_KEY="your-id.your-secret"

Configuration File

You can also store your API key in a configuration file (ensure proper file permissions):

{
  "zai_api_key": "your-id.your-secret"
}

Rate Limits and Billing

  • Check your API Management dashboard for current rate limits
  • Monitor your usage and billing information
  • Contact support for API recharge if needed

Support

For API-related support:

Available Models

Z.ai provides several models including:

  • GLM-4.5: Latest flagship model with reasoning, coding, and agent functionalities
  • GLM-4.5-Air: Lightweight flagship model with cost-effectiveness
  • GLM-4.5-Flash: Most advanced free model
  • GLM-4-32B-0414-128K: General-purpose LLM for business and technical domains
  • CogVideoX-3: Text-to-video model for high-fidelity motion
  • Vidu Q1: High-fidelity 1080p video generation
  • Vidu 2: Fast, low-cost 720p video generation

For complete model specifications and capabilities, visit Z.ai Models.