What Is an SSH Key? Public and Private Keys Explained

An SSH key is a public/private key pair for secure login. Learn what SSH keys are, how authentication works, where keys are stored, and how to use them with GitHub.

  • An SSH key is a cryptographic credential made of a public key and a private key.
  • The private key proves identity without being sent over the network.
  • SSH keys are commonly used for GitHub, GitLab, server login, automation, and CI/CD access.
Platform Setup Guides
What Is SSH? The Complete Guide to Secure Shell What Is an SSH Key? Public and Private Keys Explained SSH Command Examples: Syntax, Flags, Tunnels, and Keys How to Set Up SSH Keys for GitHub, Linux, Mac, and Windows Generate SSH Key: Online Tool and ssh-keygen Commands ssh-keygen Command: Create SSH Keys with Examples
SSH Key Generator
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Resources
GitHub SSH Docs GitLab SSH Docs SSH Academy SSH Cheat Sheet
What Is an SSH Key? Public and Private Keys Explained SSH Key Generator: Generate SSH Keys Online