Create a Developer Services account
To access the Developer Services Console, sign up with your email address. Our pay-as-you-grow pricing model eliminates upfront fees and contract negotiations, starting at a low cost per wallet. The pricing scales as your user base expands. To access Set up your account on Circle’s Developer Services Console.Set up your account
Create an account on Circle’s Developer Services Console.
Understanding Testnet vs Mainnet environments
Testnet is akin to a training ground for developers. It’s a simulated
environment where you can develop, test, and polish your applications with
confidence. In this space, you can execute transactions and test various
scenarios without any financial implications, as Testnet does not involve
real cryptocurrencies or assets.
Mainnet is where everything goes live. This network handles actual
transactions with genuine digital currencies. Operating on Mainnet means
dealing with real-world consequences and genuine assets. The results of
actions performed here are immediate and impactful.
In our quickstarts, we use Testnet to guarantee a secure learning experience.
Your Testnet API key serves as the gateway to this development.
Create your API key
Generate a standard API key:1
Log in to the console
Use your login details to log in to the Circle Developer Services console.
2
Go to API Keys
On the left hand nav, select the API Keys page, and then select CREATE A KEY.
3
Set Up your API key
On the Create an API Key page, enter a name for your API key, and then select Standard Key.
4
Copy and Store your API key
The console displays your key only once after you create it. Make sure to copy the key value and store it in a secure location. You can’t retrieve the key value after you close the dialog. If you lose it, you need to create another key. Never share your key with anyone.
The power of Testnet
Test With Assurance
Engage in robust testing of your applications, smart contracts, and other
blockchain innovations within a safe environment that simulates real-world
operations. This sandbox allows for trial and error without any financial
stakes, so mistakes carry no monetary risk.
Achieve Broad Compatibility
Testnet serves as a preparatory platform for launches on various
blockchains. Whether your focus is on Ethereum, Polygon, or Avalanche,
Testnet provides insights into how your applications will perform across
different ecosystems.
Encourage Innovation
The Testnet environment is the perfect place to brainstorm and develop new
blockchain solutions. Here, you have the license to push boundaries and
explore various possibilities without financial constraints.
Iterate Swiftly
Benefit from the ability to quickly refine your projects based on
immediate feedback and test insights. The adaptable nature of Testnet
supports rapid prototyping and swift iteration, which can lead to faster
advancements and better outcomes in your development cycle.
Developer-Controlled Wallet
Will show you how to set up custodial wallets by establishing your entity secret and how to initiate a transaction.
User-Controlled Wallet
Learn how to set up non-custodial wallets for your end-users and initiate a transfer for them.
Using CCTP with Circle Wallets
Walkthrough of using the Cross-Chain Transfer Protocol (CCTP) with Circle Wallets, which allows you to bridge USDC across Blockchains.