While the Google Maps API key is not mandatory for the Interactive Geo Maps plugin to function, it is required to enable certain features, such as geocoding for creating markers. However, it's important to note that using the Google API key may incur associated costs, so be mindful of this.
Follow these steps to obtain a Google API key:
Step 1: Access the Google Cloud Platform Console
Go to the Google Cloud Platform Console.
Log in with your Google account credentials.
Step 2: Select or Create a Project
Click on the project drop-down menu and select an existing project or create a new one specifically for this purpose.
Step 3: Navigate to Credentials
Click on the menu button in the top left corner.
Select "APIs & Services" and then choose "Credentials" from the dropdown menu.
Step 4: Create an API Key
On the Credentials page, click on the "Create credentials" button.
Choose "API key" from the options provided.
The API key created dialog will display your newly generated API key.
Click "Close" to finish the process.
Step 5: Restrict the API Key (Optional but Recommended)
For security reasons, it's advisable to restrict the usage of your API key before deploying it in a production environment.
You can do this by navigating to the Credentials page, finding your API key, and clicking on the edit icon next to it.
Follow the instructions to set restrictions based on your specific needs.
Step 6: Add the API Key in Plugin Settings
Once you have obtained your API key, log in to your WordPress dashboard.
Go to the settings page of the Interactive Geo Maps plugin.
Locate the field designated for the Google API key.
Enter your API key into the provided field.
