SSH Keys

SSH keys are a pair of cryptographic keys (public and private) used for secure authentication in the SSH (Secure Shell) protocol, enabling passwordless and encrypted access to remote servers and services. They provide a more secure alternative to password-based authentication by using asymmetric encryption to verify identity without transmitting sensitive credentials over the network.

Also known as: Secure Shell Keys, SSH Key Pairs, SSH Authentication Keys, SSH Public-Private Keys, SSH Key Authentication

Why learn SSH Keys?

Developers should use SSH keys for secure, automated access to servers (e.g., Linux/Unix systems, cloud instances), Git repositories (like GitHub or GitLab), and network devices, as they reduce the risk of brute-force attacks and simplify deployment scripts. They are essential in DevOps workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and any scenario requiring frequent or scripted remote connections without manual password entry.

Learning Resources

• docs: GitHub Docs: Connecting to GitHub with SSH
• tutorial: DigitalOcean Tutorial: How to Set Up SSH Keys
• docs: SSH Academy: SSH Key Management Guide
• video: YouTube: SSH Keys Explained
• tutorial: Linuxize: How to Generate SSH Keys