Rate limit
A rate limit is a cap a service places on how many requests a given API key, account, or IP address can make within a time window, such as 50 requests per minute. Exceeding it usually returns an error rather than queuing the extra requests.
Why it matters
Rate limits exist to keep a shared service usable for everyone, and they are often tied directly to the API key making the request, which is one more reason a leaked key causing unexpected traffic is a problem you want to notice quickly.
Does Claude Keychain enforce rate limits?
No, rate limits are set and enforced by the service the key belongs to, not by Claude Keychain.
What should I do if I keep hitting a rate limit?
Check whether something is calling the API more often than expected, then look at the provider's options for a higher limit if the usage is legitimate.
Related
Looking for a different way to manage your keys? See the best Claude Code API key manager alternatives, or browse every term in the glossary.