How to use SSH keys

SSH keys are safer and more convenient than passwords when used correctly.

Create a key pair

ssh-keygen -t ed25519 -C "your-email@example.nz"

Copy the key to your server

ssh-copy-id root@YOUR_SERVER_IP

Good practice

  • Use a passphrase on your private key.
  • Never share your private key.
  • Remove keys that are no longer used.
  • Keep a recovery method available before disabling password login.