Content Studio / Reference
Smart Image Machine Keys
Use machine keys to connect Smart Image components with administrator-editable images.
What a Machine Key Does
A machine key is the stable identifier that connects a publisher-defined image destination to one or more Smart Image components. Visitors never need to see it.
Configure Image Destinations
In the Admin component inspector, open Smart Image Destinations. Give each destination a clear Friendly Name for people and a unique Machine Key for the connection. An Admin component can define up to 16 destinations.
The exact key site-logo has an additional V1 role: its valid direct assignment supplies the Admin header logo. A Friendly Name such as Website Logo does not activate that behavior by itself. Do not rename existing keys or assignments simply to match new terminology; create the intended destination deliberately when needed.
Connect a Smart Image
In a Smart Image component, set Image Source to Smart Image. Enter the destination’s Machine Key in Destination Key. Components using the same key read the same administrator assignment.
Machine-Key Rules
Use 1–64 characters.
Start with a lowercase letter or number.
Use lowercase letters, numbers, hyphens, and underscores only.
Keep each key unique within the destination collection.
Choose a clear, stable key that describes the image’s purpose.
Invalid or Duplicate Keys
Content Studio validates the entire Smart Image Destinations collection when the site is built. If any key is invalid or duplicated, the published destination registry fails closed instead of publishing a partial set.
Changing a Key
Changing a machine key creates a different connection; it does not migrate the existing assignment. Keep keys stable and change Friendly Name when only the label needs updating. Removing a destination preserves its stored assignment; restoring the same key can reconnect it. Update public Smart Image Destination Keys only as part of an intentional change.