SSH Key Generator

SSH keys provide a secure way of logging into a virtual private server with SSH than using a password alone. While a password can eventually be cracked with a brute force attack, SSH keys are nearly impossible to decipher by brute force alone.

Settings

SSH Key Generator
SSH Key Generator

OPTION DESCRIPTION

Key algorithm

You can choose between:

RSA : RSA can be used for signing/verification and also for encryption/decryption. When using RSA it is recommended to use a 2048 bits key size.

DSA : It is faster in signing but slower in verifying. It can only be used for signing/verification it does not encrypt/decrypt . When using DSA it is a recommended to use a 1024 bits key size.

Key size You can choose your SSH Key size between:

  • 1024 bits : Minimum key size
  • 2048 bits : Default and recommended key size
  • 4096 bits : Maximum key size

Comment

Enter your username and the name of the computer you're transferring your key to.
Load Private Key This feature will allow you to import a previously saved SSH Key.
Save Public Key Saving the public key will generate a *.pub file. Simply enter a file name when prompted.
Save Private Key You will have the option of saving your Private Key in different format, choose between:

  • PKCS #8 Private Key (*.pri)
  • PuTTY Private Key (*.ppk)
  • OpenSSH Private Key (*.pri)

If you did not specify a passphrase you will have to confirm that you do not wish to use a passphrase.

If using the Key Agent Manager you must chose the PuTTY Private Key (.ppk) file format or the OpenSSH Private Key (.pri) file format. The PKCS Private Key is not a supported file format for the Key Agent Manager.