What are SSH keys?

SSH keys offer an even more secure way to log in to your server than a complex password. SSH key authorization requires two components: a private key used by the client connecting to your instance and a public key stored on your instance. During the login process the server verifies if the two keys match and grants access if the private key is correct.

SSH keys use extremely complex encryption methods that are virtually impossible to crack using brute force methods.

In addition to bringing more security, using SSH keys makes your life easier: there is no need to type or remember passwords. Just connect to your instance using your private key and you are immediately logged in. However, if you want, you can also secure your SSH keys using a password so that no one can connect to your instance by stealing your private key.

Using and Generating SSH keys in Tavu Cloud panel

You can easily generate new SSH keys in Tavu Cloud panel or use existing ones you have created earlier. To do this, navigate to SSH keys section in the control panel.

a) Using an existing key

To use an existing SSH key, enter a name for the key in the Name field. After this, paste your public key (.pub file) in the Public key field and click Generate. We will then store your public key and you can easily put it on any new instances you create.

b) Generating a new key

To generate a new key, enter a name for the key in the Name field. After this, click the Generate button and a key will automatically be generated.

Tavu Cloud dialog

Next, a popup will open allowing you the copy your new public key or download it in .pem or .ppk format. Ppk file is needed for using the key with PuTTY on Windows. Pem formatted file can be used on Linux or macOS.

Set up your SSH key on your instance

You are now ready to use your newly saved or generated SSH key. Just create an instance and select the SSH key you’d like to use during instance creation.

If you need additional help setting up SSH keys with your client, please refer to the following guides: