Security Tools/SSH Key Generator
SSH Key Generator
Generate RSA/ED25519 SSH key pairs
Key Configuration
SSH Key Generator Guide
Learn how to generate and use SSH keys for secure server authentication
What are SSH Keys?
SSH keys are cryptographic key pairs used for secure authentication. They consist of a public key (shared with servers) and a private key (kept secret). SSH keys are more secure than passwords and enable passwordless authentication.
How to Use
- Choose your key type (RSA 4096-bit recommended for compatibility)
- Add a comment to identify the key (usually your email)
- Click 'Generate Keys' to create your key pair
- Download and save both keys securely
Best Practices
- Use RSA 4096-bit for maximum compatibility with older servers
- Use ED25519 for modern servers (smaller keys, faster)
- Always protect your private key with proper file permissions (chmod 600)
Security Notice
All key generation happens locally in your browser using the Web Crypto API. Your private key is never transmitted over the network. Always download and store your private key securely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which key type should I choose?
For maximum compatibility, choose RSA 4096-bit. For modern systems and better performance, choose ED25519. ED25519 keys are smaller and faster but may not work with very old SSH servers.
How do I add my public key to a server?
Copy your public key and add it to ~/.ssh/authorized_keys on the server. You can also use 'ssh-copy-id' command if you have password access. Each public key should be on its own line.
How do I protect my private key?
Store your private key in ~/.ssh/ directory with permissions set to 600 (chmod 600 id_rsa). Never share your private key. Consider adding a passphrase for additional security.
What's the difference between RSA and ED25519?
RSA is older and widely compatible but requires larger key sizes for security. ED25519 is modern, uses elliptic curves for smaller keys (256-bit provides 128-bit security), and is faster. ED25519 is recommended for new setups.
Can I use the same key pair for multiple servers?
Yes, you can add the same public key to multiple servers. However, for better security practices, consider using different key pairs for different purposes (work, personal, etc.) to limit exposure if one key is compromised.