What is SSH key encryption and how does it work?

What is SSH key encryption and how does it work?

SSH key encryption is a method used to secure data transmitted over a network. It uses a pair of keys: a public key and a private key. The public key is shared with anyone who wants to connect to your server, while the private key is kept secret. When a connection is made, the server uses the public key to encrypt a message that only the private key can decrypt.

Why should I use SSH keys instead of passwords?

Using SSH keys is more secure than passwords because they are much harder to crack. SSH keys are also immune to brute-force attacks, and they can be easily managed and revoked if needed.

How do I generate an SSH key pair?

You can generate an SSH key pair using the command ssh-keygen in your terminal. Follow the prompts to save the keys and set a passphrase for added security.

Can I use SSH keys for multiple servers?

Yes, you can use the same SSH key pair for multiple servers. Just add the public key to the ~/.ssh/authorized_keys file on each server you want to access.