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Resolving 'EWWW I.O. Cloud requires an API key' and Other Common Plugin Messages

13 threads Sep 7, 2025 Plugin → Ewww image optimizer

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Users of the EWWW Image Optimizer plugin sometimes encounter confusing status messages or prompts for an API key, even when they intend to use the free, local optimization features. This guide will help you understand what these messages mean and how to resolve them to get your images optimizing successfully.

Why You Might See an API Key Prompt

The plugin's interface is designed for both its free and cloud-based services. If the plugin detects that certain server-level tools are missing or if a setting is configured to use the cloud API, it may display a prompt for an API key. This does not necessarily mean you must purchase one to use the plugin. The free version that uses your server's resources remains fully functional for most users.

Common Messages and Their Solutions

1. The "Requires Attention" Status or Missing Tools Message

After installation, you might see a status message listing tools like finfo or mime_content_type() as "Missing."

  • Why it happens: This is an informational message indicating which PHP functions are available on your server for reading image files. It is often not a critical error.
  • The solution: As seen in the sample threads, many users find that the bulk optimizer works perfectly fine despite this message. You can proceed to use the Bulk Optimizer under Media > Bulk Optimize. If it processes images and shows compression percentages, your server is configured correctly, and you can ignore the message.

2. "EWWW I.O. Cloud requires an API key to optimize images"

This red error message can appear persistently, even after entering a key.

  • Why it happens: This typically indicates a configuration or saving issue specific to the cloud API key functionality.
  • The solution: For persistent API key errors, the recommended course of action is to seek direct support. According to forum responses, all API-specific concerns should be directed to the EWWW Image Optimizer team via their contact form.

3. Settings for Local Tools Seem Inaccessible

You may notice that optimization level settings for PNG or GIF are greyed out or mention an API key, even though you have tools like OptipNG installed on your server.

  • Why it happens: The plugin will automatically use local tools like Jpegtran, Optipng, and Gifsicle if they are found on your server and if PHP's exec() function is enabled. The settings interface is streamlined and may not show separate toggles for these tools.
  • The solution: The most important step is to verify your server environment. Navigate to the plugin's Support tab and retrieve the debug information. This report will show exactly which tools the plugin has detected. If your local tools are present and exec() is enabled, the plugin is already using them for compression.

How to Confirm Local Optimization is Working

  1. Go to your WordPress Dashboard and navigate to Media > Bulk Optimizer.
  2. Start the process. If the optimization is working locally, you will see it process images and display results, including a reduction percentage and bytes saved, without charging any API credits.

Key Takeaways

  • The free version of EWWW Image Optimizer does not require an API key or credits to perform optimization using your server's resources.
  • Status messages about missing functions are often informational and may not prevent the plugin from working.
  • The plugin automatically uses local binaries if they are available; no separate configuration is needed.
  • For any persistent issues specifically related to API key validation, contacting support directly is the most effective path to a resolution.

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