To provide enhanced security and performance, MapCosmos uses two separate Mapbox API keys: a public key for displaying the map on your website, and a secret key for server-side functions like geolocation.

This guide provides the steps for generating both keys and integrating them with your MapCosmos account.

Step 1: Create Your Public API Key (for your website)

This key is used to display the MapCosmos widget on your website. It must be restricted to your domain for security.

1. Navigate to Mapbox: Go to your Mapbox account page and sign in.
2. Create a Token: In the Tokens section, click the Create a token button.
3. Name Your Token: Give your token a descriptive name, such as "MapCosmos Public Key".
4. Restrict the URL: This is a crucial step. Under the URLs section, you must enter the domain of the website where you will display your map (e.g., yourstore.com).
5. Confirm: Click the Create token button to save the newly generated key.

Step 2: Create Your Secret API Key (for geolocation)

This key is used internally by MapCosmos for server-side processes. It must not have any domain restrictions.

1. Create Another Token: Back in your Mapbox dashboard, click Create a token again.
2. Name Your Token: Give it a name, like "MapCosmos Secret Key".
3. Do Not Add Restrictions: Leave the URLs section completely blank for this key. Adding a URL restriction will cause errors with geolocation services.
4. Click Create token.

Step 3: Add Both Keys to MapCosmos

Now you will add the two keys to your MapCosmos settings.

1. Log in to your MapCosmos account and navigate to General Settings.
   • Paste your first key (the public one with URL restrictions) into the API key (public) field.
   • Paste your second key (the secret one with no restrictions) into the API key (secret) field.
2. In the Map Provider section, under MapBox:
3. Click Save changes.

✅ You’re All Set!

Your store locator is now securely configured to use Mapbox, providing a fast and stylish experience for your users. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact our support team at contact@mapcosmos.com.

Need Help Choosing a Map Provider?

If you're still deciding between map providers, we've written a detailed article comparing the pros and cons of Google Maps and Mapbox for business use.