Fix OpenAI API 401 authentication errors

Steps

1. Confirm the running server uses the intended key and project. Check for a revoked key, stale environment, or incorrect organization configuration.
2. Read the specific error: a 401 can also indicate organization membership or an IP allowlist issue. Correct that condition before retrying.

Example

Python · Python API examples require OPENAI_API_KEY and OPENAI_MODEL in your server environment. API calls may incur OpenAI charges.

# Run in the same environment as the failing application.
import os
print("API key configured:", bool(os.environ.get("OPENAI_API_KEY")))

Check the result

This reports presence only. It cannot validate a key. After correcting settings, restart the application and retry one small request; keep credentials out of diagnostic logs.

Official source

OpenAI API error codes

Check current provider documentation and model support before deployment. This guide is separate from the approved evidence records listed in the catalog.