Fix Agent Router API: 401 Unauthorized Error Troubleshooting

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Agent Router API Issue Discussion: How to Fix 401 Unauthorized Error

Hey guys! Running into a frustrating 401 Unauthorized error with your Agent Router API? Don't worry, it's a common issue, and we're here to help you troubleshoot and resolve it. This guide breaks down the problem, explains potential causes, and offers step-by-step solutions to get your API calls working smoothly again. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Problem: Agent Router and the 401 Error

The 401 Unauthorized error is an HTTP status code that indicates that the request sent to the server lacks valid authentication credentials. In simpler terms, the server is saying, "Hey, I don't recognize you, or your API key isn't working, so I can't grant you access." When dealing with APIs like Agent Router, this usually points to an issue with your API key, the way you're sending it, or the configuration of your Agent Router setup.

To provide some context, the user who raised this issue was setting up a custom provider in Dyad, which is a platform that allows integrating with various AI providers. The steps they followed are crucial to understanding the problem:

  1. Navigating to Dyad's settings (Gear icon > AI Providers).
  2. Clicking "Add Custom Provider."
  3. Filling in provider details (e.g., ID: agentrouter, Display Name: AgentRouter).
  4. Accessing the new AgentRouter provider settings.
  5. Setting the Base URL to: https://agentrouter.org/v1
  6. Pasting a valid API key from agentrouter.org into the API Key field.
  7. Adding a custom model to this provider (e.g., Model ID: gpt-5, Name: GPT-5).
  8. Attempting to use the new model in a chat.

The expected behavior was a successful API call with the model returning a response. However, the actual behavior was a failed API call, resulting in a 401 Unauthorized error. The response body provided valuable information: {"message":"UNAUTHENTICATED","success":false}. This message clearly indicates an authentication problem.

Why This Happens: Common Causes of 401 Errors

Before we jump into solutions, let's understand the common culprits behind the 401 Unauthorized error in the context of Agent Router and API integrations:

  • Invalid API Key: This is the most frequent cause. The API key you're using might be incorrect, expired, or not activated yet. Double-check that you've copied the key correctly from your Agent Router account and that it's valid.
  • Incorrect API Key Placement: APIs often require the key to be sent in a specific way—either in the header, as a query parameter, or in the request body. If you're not sending it in the expected format, the server won't recognize it.
  • Typos in the Base URL: A simple typo in the base URL can lead to the server not recognizing the endpoint and, consequently, failing authentication. Ensure the base URL (https://agentrouter.org/v1 in this case) is exactly correct.
  • Account Issues: Your Agent Router account might have limitations or restrictions that prevent API access. For instance, you might have reached your API usage limit or your account might be suspended.
  • Incorrect Method: Certain API endpoints can require a specific request method like POST or GET. If you're using the wrong method it may result in an unauthorized error.
  • Missing Headers: Some APIs require specific headers to be set for the request to be considered valid.

Troubleshooting Steps: How to Fix the 401 Error

Now, let's walk through the steps you can take to resolve this 401 Unauthorized error. We'll cover everything from the most basic checks to more advanced troubleshooting.

1. Verify Your API Key

This is the first and most crucial step. A wrong API key is the most common reason for this error. Here’s how to verify it:

  • Double-Check the Key: Carefully compare the API key you've entered in Dyad (or your application) with the one in your Agent Router account. Even a single incorrect character can cause the error. It’s often best to copy and paste the key directly to avoid typos.
  • Check for Trailing Spaces: Sometimes, extra spaces can accidentally get copied along with the key. Make sure there are no leading or trailing spaces.
  • Key Status: Log in to your Agent Router account and check the status of your API key. It might be inactive, expired, or revoked.
  • Regenerate the Key: If you suspect the key might be compromised or if you're unsure about its validity, generate a new API key in your Agent Router account and update it in your Dyad settings.

2. Check API Key Placement

APIs usually expect the API key in a specific location within the HTTP request. The most common places are:

  • Authorization Header: This is the recommended and most secure way. The key is sent in the Authorization header, typically with the Bearer scheme. For example:

    Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY

  • Query Parameter: The key is appended to the URL as a query parameter. For example:

    https://agentrouter.org/v1/endpoint?api_key=YOUR_API_KEY

  • Request Body: For POST requests, the key can be included in the JSON body.

Consult the Agent Router API documentation to determine the correct way to send the API key. If Dyad requires you to manually configure the header, make sure you're using the correct format. If you're using other tools like curl or Postman, ensure you're setting the header correctly.

3. Validate the Base URL

A typo in the base URL can prevent the API request from reaching the correct endpoint. Ensure that the Base URL in your Dyad settings (or wherever you're configuring the Agent Router) is exactly https://agentrouter.org/v1. Pay attention to:

  • HTTPS vs. HTTP: Make sure you're using https:// for a secure connection.
  • Slashes: Ensure there's a trailing slash if the API requires it.
  • Typos: Double-check for any misspelled characters.

4. Review Your Agent Router Account

Your account status and API usage can affect authentication. Here’s what to check:

  • API Usage Limits: Agent Router might have limits on the number of API requests you can make within a certain period. If you've exceeded your limit, you'll get a 401 error or a 429 Too Many Requests error.
  • Account Status: Your account might be suspended or have other restrictions. Log in to your Agent Router dashboard and check for any notifications or alerts.
  • Subscription Plan: Your subscription plan might not include API access or might have limitations. Verify your plan details.

5. Test with a Simple Request (curl or Postman)

To isolate the problem, try making a simple API request using a tool like curl or Postman. These tools allow you to control every aspect of the request, including headers, methods, and body. This can help you determine if the issue is with your Dyad configuration or with the API request itself.

Here’s an example curl command (replace YOUR_API_KEY with your actual API key):

curl -H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY" https://agentrouter.org/v1/some-endpoint

If the curl request fails with a 401 error, the issue is likely with the API key or how you're sending it. If it succeeds, the problem might be specific to Dyad's configuration.

6. Inspect Request Headers and Body

Use your browser's developer tools (Network tab) or a tool like Wireshark to inspect the actual HTTP request being sent. This will show you:

  • Headers: Verify that the Authorization header is present and contains the correct API key.
  • Request Body: If you're sending data in the request body, make sure it's correctly formatted (e.g., JSON).
  • Method: Ensure that you're using the method that the API endpoint expects (e.g., GET, POST, PUT, DELETE).

7. Consult Agent Router API Documentation

Always refer to the official Agent Router API documentation. It will provide detailed information on:

  • Authentication methods: How to send the API key (header, query parameter, etc.).
  • Required headers: Any specific headers that must be included in the request.
  • Request formats: How to format the request body (if needed).
  • Error codes: Detailed explanations of different error codes and how to resolve them.

8. Check for Library or SDK Issues

If you're using a specific library or SDK to interact with the Agent Router API, there might be an issue with the library itself. Check for updates or consult the library's documentation and community forums.

9. Contact Agent Router Support

If you've tried all the above steps and are still facing the 401 error, reach out to Agent Router's support team. They can help you troubleshoot the issue further, especially if it involves account-specific problems or API key issues on their end.

Applying the Solutions to the Dyad Setup

Given the original user's scenario with Dyad, let's apply these troubleshooting steps specifically to their setup:

  1. Re-verify the API Key: Go back to the AgentRouter provider settings in Dyad and double-check the API key. Ensure there are no typos or extra spaces.
  2. Check Header Configuration (if applicable): Dyad might have a specific way to configure headers. Verify that you're setting the Authorization header correctly if Dyad requires manual header configuration.
  3. Validate the Base URL: Double-check that the Base URL in Dyad is https://agentrouter.org/v1.
  4. Test with Postman/curl: Use Postman or curl to make a simple API call to Agent Router using the same API key. If this works, the issue is likely with the Dyad configuration.
  5. Review Dyad Documentation: Consult Dyad's documentation on integrating with custom AI providers and ensure you've followed all the steps correctly.

Conclusion: Getting Your Agent Router API Working

The 401 Unauthorized error can be a headache, but by systematically working through these troubleshooting steps, you can usually pinpoint the cause and get your Agent Router API integration up and running. Remember to start with the basics—verifying your API key and its placement—and then move on to more advanced checks like inspecting request headers and consulting the API documentation.

By understanding the error, checking your credentials, and testing your setup, you'll be back to leveraging the power of the Agent Router API in no time. Good luck, and let us know if you have any other questions, guys! We are here to help.