Gemini API Key Setup (Google Generative AI)
To use Gemini Pro models (by Google) via LangChain or the direct API, you need to get a Gemini API key from Google’s MakerSuite platform. Here’s how to do that:
Step-by-Step Guide to Get Gemini API Key
Step 1: Visit MakerSuite
Step 2: Log in with Google Account
• Use your Google account to sign in.
• If you don’t have one, create a new account.
Step 3: Generate a New API Key
• Click on “Create API key”.
• Copy the generated key. (Keep it private.)
Generated key shown in a dialog box like:
Step 4: Store API Key Securely Using .env
Create a .env file in your project directory:
Step 5: Load API Key in Python
Install python-dotenv (if not already):
Python Code to Load API Key:
Alternative models (Hugging Face, LLaMA)
Not limited to Gemini — you can also use other open models.
Hugging Face Transformers:
Example code:
LLaMA (Meta AI):
• Available on Hugging Face.
• Large models need GPU setup and advanced configuration.
You may need:
Why This Setup is Important
It helps you:
• ✅ Avoid version conflicts
• ✅ Store and use API keys securely
• ✅ Focus on coding — not debugging setup errors
• ✅ Work with LangChain, Gemini, Hugging Face, etc.
You’re Now Ready to Code!
By completing this setup:
• 🟢 You’re in a clean virtual environment
• 🟢 Core libraries are installed
• 🟢 Gemini API key is ready
• 🟢 You can build AI projects using LangChain + DRF
