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

# Going Live

> Transitioning your integration from Test to Production.

Once you have completed your integration and testing using the **Test Key**, follow these steps to start processing real transactions.

## Checklist for Production

Before switching to your Live Key, ensure you have completed the following:

<Steps>
  <Step title="Verify IP Whitelist">
    Ensure your production server's IP address is whitelisted in the [API Settings](https://vtulab.com/user/settings/api).
  </Step>

  <Step title="Switch API Keys">
    Replace your `test_...` key with your `live_...` key in your environment variables.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Check Wallet Balance">
    Identity and VTU services are charged in real-time. Ensure your wallet has sufficient balance for live operations.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure Webhooks">
    Make sure your live webhook URL is configured and your server is ready to receive `transaction.updated` events.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Live vs. Test Mode

| Feature              | Test Mode (Sandbox)       | Live Mode (Production)          |
| :------------------- | :------------------------ | :------------------------------ |
| **API Key**          | `test_...`                | `live_...`                      |
| **Wallet Impact**    | None (Simulated)          | Real-time debit                 |
| **Service Delivery** | Simulated success/failure | Real delivery to telcos/NIMC    |
| **Reference Prefix** | `TEST_...`                | `DATA_...`, `AIRTIME_...`, etc. |

<Warning>
  **Important**: Double-check your recipient phone numbers in Live mode. Transactions made to wrong numbers cannot be reversed once successful.
</Warning>

<Note>
  We recommend performing a small transaction (e.g., 100 Airtime) with your Live Key to verify the end-to-end flow before opening your application to all users.
</Note>