> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.freakhosting.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# BeamMP "Backend REFUSED the Auth Key": How to Fix It

> Fix the BeamMP error "Backend REFUSED the auth key. Your key is invalid": create a key at keymaster.beammp.com, paste it into Authentication Key and restart.

The BeamMP error `Backend REFUSED the auth key. Reason: Your key is invalid.` means BeamMP's servers don't accept the key in your server's config, so the server is not listed. On FREAKHOSTING, create a key at [keymaster.beammp.com](https://keymaster.beammp.com), paste it into **Authentication Key** on the **Startup** page (replacing `changemeplease`) and restart the server.

| Symptom | Cause | Fix |
| - | - | - |
| Error repeats every 30 seconds, server "running" | Key not accepted | New key on **Startup**, restart |

The full line in the console looks like this:

```text theme={null}
[ERROR] Backend REFUSED the auth key. Reason: Your key is invalid. You can generate a key at https://keymaster.beammp.com/
```

## Why is my BeamMP auth key invalid?

| Cause | How to tell | Fix |
| - | - | - |
| Placeholder key | **Authentication Key** still says `changemeplease` | Paste a real key |
| Copy mistake | Key is shorter, or has a space or quote | Copy again with the clipboard icon in the Keymaster |
| Key only in the file | You edited `AuthKey` in `ServerConfig.toml` | Set it on **Startup**; the file is rewritten at every start |
| Key used by another server | The same key runs somewhere else | Create a separate key for each server |
| Key removed | You deleted or replaced it in the Keymaster | Create a new key |

## How to fix the auth key error

**1. Create or copy a key**

Log in to the [Keymaster](https://keymaster.beammp.com) with Discord, open **Keys** and copy your key, or click the green **+** to create one. See [get an auth key](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/beammp/setting-server-name-and-auth-key.md).

**2. Paste it on Startup**

In the [Game Panel](https://games.freakhosting.com), click **Startup** and replace the value in **Authentication Key**. Check there are no spaces before or after it.

**3. Restart**

[Restart the server](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-start-stop-and-restart-your-game-server.md).

**4. Check the console**

Watch the [console](https://help.freakhosting.com/portals/game-panel/how-to-use-the-server-console.md) for a minute. If the refused line no longer appears, the key is accepted.

## Frequently asked questions

### Can players still join while the key is refused?

Yes, with **Direct Connect** and your IP and port. The server just isn't listed.

### I ran out of keys. What can I do?

Reuse a key from a server you no longer run, or get extra keys by supporting BeamMP (donations or boosting the BeamMP Discord server).

### Is the key the same as my BeamMP account password?

No. The auth key is only for the server. Your account login is separate and managed by BeamMP.

## Related guides

> [card] [BeamMP server guide](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/beammp/beammp-server-hosting-guide.md)
>
> Every BeamMP page in one place.

> [card] [Auth key and name](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/beammp/setting-server-name-and-auth-key.md)
>
> Keymaster step by step.

> [card] [Not showing in the list](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/beammp/beammp-server-not-showing-in-list.md)
>
> Other reasons you aren't listed.

> [card] [Getting started](https://help.freakhosting.com/games/beammp/getting-started-with-your-beammp-server.md)
>
> Set up your server.

***

> [!NOTE]
>
> **Tested by the FREAKHOSTING team** on our Game Panel on 3 November 2026 (BeamMP Server v3.9.3). Steps may differ slightly if the game changes.

> [!NOTE]
>
> ### Need Extra Help?
>
> If you encounter any issues, our support team is ready to assist:
>
> * **Live Chat:** Quick assistance via our website.
> * **Support Ticket:** [Open a Ticket](https://freakhosting.com/clientarea/submitticket.php)
> * **Discord:** [Join our Community](https://discord.gg/freakhosting)
> * **Email:** [support@freakhosting.com](mailto:support@freakhosting.com)

> [!TIP]
>
> ### Save on Your Hosting
>
> Ready to upgrade your hosting? Use code **KB20** at checkout for **20% off** your first order!

***

**Last Updated:** November 2026


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