How to Create an SSH Secret Key on Linux

Creating an SSH key pair is an essential step for secure remote access to servers. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of generating an SSH secret key on a Linux system, ensuring that you can connect securely without using passwords.

Step-by-Step Guide to Generate an SSH Key Pair

Step 1: Open Your Terminal

Begin by opening your terminal application on your Linux system. This is where you’ll enter the commands needed to generate your SSH key.

Step 2: Generate the SSH Key Pair

To create a new SSH key pair, type the following command into your terminal:

ssh-keygen -t rsa -C "[email protected]"

Make sure to replace “[email protected]“ with your actual email address. This email address helps identify your key and can be useful for reference.

Step 3: Follow the Prompts

After entering the command, you will be prompted to provide some information. Simply press Enter to accept the default options for each prompt:

Enter the file in which to save the key (/root/.ssh/id_rsa):
Directory '/root/.ssh' has been created.
Enter passphrase (empty for no passphrase):
Enter same passphrase again:
Your identity has been saved in /root/.ssh/id_rsa.
Your public key has been saved in /root/.ssh/id_rsa.pub.

• File Location: Press Enter to save the key in the default location (/root/.ssh/id_rsa), or specify a different path if desired.
• Passphrase: Adding a passphrase increases security. If you prefer not to use one, just press Enter to leave it blank.

Step 4: Navigate to the SSH Directory

Once the key is generated, navigate to the .ssh directory where your keys are stored:

cd ~/.ssh

Step 5: Display Your Public Key

To view your newly generated public key, use the cat command:

cat id_rsa.pub

This command will display your public key in the terminal, allowing you to copy it directly for later use.

Note: Don’t worry about formatting; simply copy the key as it appears.

Step 6: Use Your Public Key for Secure Connections

Now that you have your public key, you can add it to your remote server’s ~/.ssh/authorized_keys file. This enables you to connect to your server securely without needing to enter a password each time.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully created an SSH secret key on your Linux system! This key pair enhances the security of your remote connections, making it easier to manage your servers without compromising safety. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to secure server access using SSH. Always keep your private key secure and consider using SSH config files for easier management of multiple keys and hosts.

By implementing these practices, you’ll ensure a robust and secure connection to your remote servers.