> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.exavault.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.exavault.com/using-exavault/users/ssh-key-authentication/creating-an-ssh-key-on-linux.md).

# Creating an SSH Key on Linux

The easiest way to generate an RSA key pair on Linux is by using the built-in ssh-keygen tool in the terminal. It's fast, doesn't require installing anything, and works on all mainstream Linux distributions.

Using a terminal, enter the command:

```
ssh-keygen -t rsa -b 4096 -C "your_email@example.com"
```

Replace *<your_email@example.com>* with your own email, or another comment identifying your key.

You'll see a prompt like:

```
Enter file in which to save the key (/home/yourname/.ssh/id_rsa):
```

Press Enter to accept the default, or enter a custom path. The path must be in a restricted directory that others do not have permission to access.

When prompted to enter a passphrase, you can press enter to skip, or supply a passphrase. This is not the same as your ExaVault account password.

The process generates two files: a private key with no extension, and a public key with the extension `.pub`.

Upload your public key to your account, and add your private key to your SFTP client. Never give your private key to anyone.