Automating trading on Bybit lets you trade 24/7 without constantly watching the market. Register at Bybit (referral link) if you don’t have an account yet.

This guide is for connecting external bot platforms or services to Bybit via API; Bybit’s built-in tools on the exchange do not require API keys. You can use Bybit’s built-in bots or connect bots from other automation platforms — for example Veles (referral link: signing up via it benefits both you and us). If you connect an external platform and need help, reach out; contacts are on the About page.

Walkthrough: what you need, how to create API keys, how to connect them to your bot platform, and which mistakes to avoid.

What you need

• a verified Bybit account
• funds on the account (for trading and fees)
• API keys (to connect an external bot/platform to Bybit)
• a clear strategy (grid/DCA, risk rules, asset selection)

Step 1: Create and verify a Bybit account

If you don’t have an account yet, register and complete KYC so you have higher limits and access to features.

Step 2: Fund the account

Deposit (commonly USDT/USDC). Then transfer funds from the funding wallet to the trading wallet if needed.

Step 3: Create an API key (critical security step)

In your Bybit profile:

1. open API

2. create a new key (e.g., “Trading Bot”)

3. set permissions:

   • ✅ trading permissions (Spot/Margin, Futures if needed)
   • ❌ Withdrawals: always OFF

If possible, restrict by IP (only allow your server IPs).

Step 4: Connect the API key to your bot

In your bot platform:

• select exchange Bybit

• paste API Key and API Secret

• save and validate the connection

Step 5: Configure strategy parameters

Common parameters:

• position size / capital allocation per bot
• grid step / number of orders (for grid bots)
• stop-loss / take-profit logic

For risk rules, see Risk Management for Crypto Trading Bots (draft).

Step 6: Launch and monitor

Track:

• PnL and drawdown
• open positions exposure
• order execution quality (slippage)
• whether market conditions still match the strategy assumptions

Stop the bot if:

• market regime changes drastically
• drawdown hits your limit
• you need to adjust parameters

Common mistakes

1. Enabling withdrawals on API keys
2. using extreme leverage
3. choosing low-liquidity pairs
4. running without clear stop/risk limits

API key security

To protect your funds, it is recommended to follow these rules:

• ✅ Use two-factor authentication (2FA)
• ✅ Restrict API permissions to only necessary functions
• ✅ Regularly check API key activity
• ✅ Do not store secret keys in plain text
• ✅ Use separate API keys for different platforms or services
• ✅ Revoke unused keys

FAQ

1. Is it safe to use API keys to connect external platforms?

Yes, if permissions are configured correctly: disable withdrawals and use 2FA.

2. Can I use one API key for multiple platforms or services?

Technically, yes, but it is recommended to use separate keys for each platform — this makes it easier to control access and revoke only one key in case of a leak.

3. What if I forgot the API secret key?

You need to create a new API key. The old key can be revoked in the settings.

4. What is the minimum amount required for trading via an external platform on Bybit?

The minimum amount depends on the strategy and trading pair. Usually, $50–100 is enough to start.

5. Is it possible to trade on Bybit without verification?

Yes, but with limitations. For full access to exchange features, it is recommended to complete verification.

Summary

Setting up a trading bot on Bybit is the first step towards automating trading. A correctly configured bot and well-tuned risk management allow you to trade efficiently 24/7. Before launching a bot, it is recommended to test the strategy on backtests.

Register on Bybit and start automated trading.