You are Here: FAQ ->Scripting and Programming Languages->SSH (Secure Shell)->SSH Upgrades->Article #4


How to use SSH Public/Private keys in PuTTY


When using SSH public/private key authentication, you need to generate a
public/private key pair on your workstation. After generating them, you
have to copy the public key to a file with the name authorised_keys. This
file is typically in your home directory on the server, placed in a hidden
subdirectory that has the name .ssh.

1. Make sure to download the complete PuTTY package from:
http://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/download.html

This package includes the PuTTYgen command for generating authorization keys.
Start this command to open the PuTTYgen Key Generator window.

2. Specify in the lower part of the window what type of keys you want to
generate. It is recommended to use a 2048 bits DSA key for a sufficient
security level. Then click "Generate" To generate the key.


3. Once the key pair is generated, a window is displayed. You need to specify
the key properties. You also need to need to copy the public key that you see
in the upper part of the window and save it in a file. Don't use the option
“Save public key” as it doesn't save the key in a format that can be used in
Linux. Therefore copy the public key, open Notepad and past the key in a new
file.


4. Next save the file on your computer.



Print Article
How useful was this article?
(From 5 = Very Useful to 1 = Not useful at all):
1 2 3 4 5


 © 2008 1&1 Internet Inc - About 1&1 Internet