Create an SSH Key

Tip

Use this short guide to determine if you have an existing key pair, and if not, to create one.

First, check for an existing key by typing:

ls ~/.ssh/id_ed25519*

If you see two files listed, id_ed25519 and id_ed25519.pub, you're good to go.

If you see No such file or directory, you need to create the pair.

To do so, type:

ssh-keygen -t ed25519

When prompted:

  • File location: Press Enter to accept the default (~/.ssh/id_ed25519)
  • Passphrase: Enter a passphrase or press Enter for none

This creates two files:

  • ~/.ssh/id_ed25519 - Your private key (keep this secret!)
  • ~/.ssh/id_ed25519.pub - Your public key (this gets shared with target machines)

Verify they exist by typing:

ls ~/.ssh/id_ed25519*

You should see both files listed.