Feature Request: API Authentication via API Keys

[JoelHer]

Summary:

Add support for authenticating API requests using API keys or a similar mechanism to secure endpoints and control access.

Problem:

Currently, the API does not provide a built-in way to authenticate clients. This makes it difficult to:

• Restrict access to authorized users only.
• Track usage per client or application.
• Prevent abuse or unauthorized access.

Proposed Solution:

• Implement an API key-based authentication system where:
• Users can generate one or more API keys from the system.
• Each API request must include a valid API key (e.g., via Authorization header or query parameter).
• Requests without a valid key are rejected with a 401 Unauthorized response.
• Optional: Support scopes/permissions per key to limit access to certain endpoints.
• Optional: Provide logging and analytics on key usage.

Benefits:

• Enhanced security for the API.
• Ability to control and monitor client access.
• Flexible management of keys for different applications or users.

Additional Notes:

None