Google API keys

The Google Edition of RouteConverter talks to Google's Maps services, and Google only answers those requests for a project that has an API key with billing enabled. Without a key, the map and the Google-based features stop working. The OpenSource Edition does not need a Google key — it uses open alternatives for everything except geocoding.

Which Google APIs RouteConverter uses

The Google Edition uses four APIs:

• Maps JavaScript API — draws the map.
• Directions API — calculates routes. (OpenSource Edition uses BRouter or GraphHopper instead.)
• Geocoding API — turns addresses into coordinates.
• Maps Elevation API — looks up elevation. (OpenSource Edition uses SRTM or Ferranti elevation data instead.)

The OpenSource Edition uses only the Geocoding API, because there is no equally practical open alternative.

Create a key and enter it

1. Open the Google Cloud Console and create (or select) a project.
2. Enable the four APIs listed above for that project.
3. Under Credentials, create an API key and copy it.
4. In RouteConverter, open Extras → Options → API Keys and paste the key.
5. In the Cloud Console, attach a billing account to the project.
6. Optional but recommended: set a billing budget and alert so you are notified of any usage.

Personal use stays well within Google's free monthly budget.