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How to Stop OBS from Replacing a Custom YouTube Stream Key

Find out whether OBS is using YouTube account integration or manual key entry, then select the intended reusable key in YouTube Studio and update OBS.

By DocumentaryTube Team 3 min read
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If OBS seems to replace your custom YouTube stream key, first check whether OBS is connected to your YouTube account or configured for manual key entry. Those are separate setup paths. To reuse a specific key, select it in YouTube Studio, then use the key-entry workflow in OBS. The official guidance explains these settings but does not establish one universal cause for a key changing.

Check which YouTube setup OBS is using

  1. In OBS, open Settings > Stream.
  2. Confirm the service and destination are YouTube.
  3. Check whether OBS is connected to your YouTube account or set up for manual stream-key entry. OBS documents service/server selection and a stream-key field in its Stream settings; its YouTube account connection is a distinct configuration path. OBS: Streaming with a Custom Streaming Server OBS: Connecting Your Accounts

If you want OBS to use a particular key you manage yourself, use the manual key-entry path available in the current service settings. If you intend to use the account integration, manage the broadcast through that workflow instead. The distinction is a troubleshooting check, not proof that account connection caused a key change on your computer.

Select and reuse the custom key in YouTube Studio

  1. Open YouTube Studio and go to Go Live to reach the Live Control Room.
  2. Open the Stream tab.
  3. Under Select stream key, choose the custom key you intend to reuse. If you need one, choose Create new stream key and create it.
  4. Copy the selected key into OBS’s stream-key field, then save the settings.
  5. Before starting the encoder, confirm the intended custom key is still selected for the stream in YouTube Studio.

YouTube describes stream keys as “like your YouTube stream’s password and address” and says, “To reuse the same stream key, create a custom stream key.” Treat the key as a secret: do not post it in screenshots, logs, or public support requests. YouTube Help: Manage live stream settings

Back up OBS before changing the setup

OBS profiles include Stream settings and connected-account information. Before changing how OBS connects to YouTube, duplicate or export the current profile so you can restore the previous configuration if needed. OBS: Profiles

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If the key was reset or exposed

If you suspect the key has been compromised, reset it in YouTube Studio rather than continuing to use it. YouTube’s documented path is YouTube Studio > Go Live > Stream tab > Reset beside the hidden key. Copy the new key and update the encoder settings in OBS. YouTube Help: Manage live stream settings

Diagnose a key that changes again

The official documentation supports the distinction between account integration and manual key entry, but does not confirm that OBS universally replaces custom keys or identify the cause for an unspecified installation. Gather these details before reporting a suspected bug:

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  • OBS version and operating system.
  • The selected service and destination in Settings > Stream.
  • Whether the YouTube account is connected or a key is entered manually.
  • When the displayed key changes—for example, after saving settings, changing profiles, or reopening OBS.
  • A redacted OBS log, with the stream key and any other credentials removed.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Or let it run in the cloud

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