Getting Started with the OpenMail API

The authentication component of AOL's OpenMail API utilizes an OpenAuth token. Using the AOL OpenAuth API with its basic functionality is extremely simple. If you are using OpenAuth API to get an Authentication Token that allows access to certain AOL Open APIs that require OpenAuth Authentication Tokens, you do not need to take any other steps than registering for them. The 'devId' created for any AOL Open APIs can be used to access OpenAuth APIs.

If you are using OpenAuth API to allow AOL/AIM users to login to your Web Site/Application, the following steps will get you on your way:

1. Visit the AOL Developer Site and register for a 'devId'
2. Once you have your 'devId', you can formulate a login URL with required parameters (see API Reference) and add it to your Web Site/Application.

NOTE: It is very important that you register your 'devId' with your Site/Application's correct URL in order to be able to use AOL Open Services APIs. OpenAuth Tokens are restricted for use only from the same Site/Application for which they are issued.

For more on how to use OpenAuth please visit here

Once you have your OpenAuth token, you are all set to build out your application or mashup as we describe in the sample code of the Flow of Your Application section.

See the OpenMail API Reference for detailed programming information on using the API methods:

• New Mail Count Service
• New Mail List Service