How to resolve "401 Unauthorized" errors in OpenClaw model calls?

To resolve "401 Unauthorized" errors in OpenClaw model calls, you need to ensure that your API request is properly authenticated. A 401 error indicates that the request lacks valid authentication credentials or the provided credentials are invalid. Here's how you can troubleshoot and fix the issue:

1. Check API Key or Token

Most APIs, including those for AI models like OpenClaw, require an API key or access token for authentication. Ensure that:

You have generated an API key from the correct platform (e.g., Tencent Cloud if OpenClaw is hosted there).
The API key is valid and not expired.
You are using the correct key for the environment (e.g., production vs. testing).

2. Include the API Key in the Request

The API key or token must be included in your request, typically in one of the following ways:

Header: Add the API key to the request headers. For example:
```
Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY
```
Or, if the API uses a custom header:
```
X-API-Key: YOUR_API_KEY
```
Query Parameter: Some APIs allow you to pass the API key as a query parameter in the URL:
```
https://api.example.com/openclaw?api_key=YOUR_API_KEY
```
However, this method is less secure and not recommended for production.

Here’s an example of how to include the API key in the header using Python with the requests library:

import requests

url = "https://api.example.com/openclaw/endpoint"
headers = {
    "Authorization": "Bearer YOUR_API_KEY"
}

response = requests.post(url, headers=headers, json={"input": "Your input data"})
print(response.status_code)
print(response.json())

Replace YOUR_API_KEY with your actual API key and adjust the URL and payload as needed.

3. Verify the Authentication Method

Double-check the API documentation for OpenClaw to confirm the correct authentication method. Some APIs may use OAuth 2.0, API tokens, or other mechanisms instead of a simple API key. Ensure you are following the exact steps outlined in the documentation.

4. Check for Typos or Errors

Ensure there are no typos in your API key or in the headers/query parameters. Even a small mistake (e.g., extra spaces, incorrect capitalization) can result in a 401 error.

5. Inspect the API Response

When you receive a 401 error, the response body often contains additional information about why the authentication failed. Check the JSON response for messages like "Invalid API key" or "Expired token" to get more context.

6. Regenerate the API Key (if necessary)

If you suspect the API key is invalid or compromised, regenerate it from the platform's developer console or dashboard. Update your application to use the new key.

7. Ensure Proper Permissions

Some APIs require specific permissions or roles associated with the API key. Verify that the key has the necessary access rights to call the OpenClaw model.

To implement and manage APIs securely, especially for AI model services like OpenClaw, Tencent Cloud provides robust solutions such as API Gateway, Cloud Access Management (CAM), and Key Management Service (KMS). These services help you securely manage API keys, control access, and monitor usage. Visit Tencent Cloud's official website to explore these tools and learn how they can enhance your application's security and scalability.