Question about “ipstack API Access Key”

In the plugin’s settings is a place to enter a “ipstack API Access Key”. There doesn’t seem to be any mention about it anywhere.

Is that a necessary item to add for the plugin to work properly or is it more of a “good thing” to add to make the plugin work better?

Also, is the plugin still being maintained and kept up to date? I have seen numerous questions and concerns that have not been responded to.

Thanks!
Ken