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Forum Discussion
API access token expired
Hi,
i am using some of the http api endpoints to upload or download files. As i saw in the documentation the API access tokens never expire but can only be revoked. For some reason after i use my t...
Based on your description, it sounds like you're getting the access token from the "API v2 Explorer". That tool is just meant for prototyping Dropbox API calls, and currently has early access to an upcoming "short-lived access token" feature. That means that, unlike standard Dropbox API access tokens, the access tokens you get from the API Explorer will expire by themselves. (You can identify them by the "sl." prefix you mentioned.)
To get standard Dropbox API access tokens, you should use your own API app registration. For instance, you can use the "Generate" button on your app's page on the App Console, or use the OAuth app authorization flow with your app.
Greg-DB
Dropbox Staff
Dropbox StaffBased on your description, it sounds like you're getting the access token from the "API v2 Explorer". That tool is just meant for prototyping Dropbox API calls, and currently has early access to an upcoming "short-lived access token" feature. That means that, unlike standard Dropbox API access tokens, the access tokens you get from the API Explorer will expire by themselves. (You can identify them by the "sl." prefix you mentioned.)
To get standard Dropbox API access tokens, you should use your own API app registration. For instance, you can use the "Generate" button on your app's page on the App Console, or use the OAuth app authorization flow with your app.
I have the same problem and I did use the Generate button in the app console. Mine also starts with "sl." I know this is an older question but hopefully someone is monitoring this.
- Greg-DB
SerenityNow Dropbox is no longer offering the option for creating new long-lived access tokens. Dropbox is now issuing short-lived access tokens (and optional refresh tokens) instead of long-lived access tokens. You can find more information on this migration here.
Apps can still get long-term access by requesting "offline" access though, in which case the app receives a "refresh token" that can be used to retrieve new short-lived access tokens as needed, without further manual user intervention. Refresh tokens do not expire automatically and can be used repeatedly. You can find more information in the OAuth Guide and authorization documentation. There's a basic outline of processing this flow in this blog post which may serve as a useful example.Same proplem with Generate access token via AppConsole
https://dropbox.tech/developers/generate-an-access-token-for-your-own-account
- Greg-DB
AlexStudio Yes, the "Generate" button now also produces short-lived access tokens. If you need a refresh token, use the OAuth app authorization flow. Check out the links in my previous message for information on that.
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