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==== How to Create an SSH Key for Automated Access to MIF IT Resources (SSH keys) ====

**SSH** is a protocol for connecting to a remote computer (server) and running commands on it **securely**. Remote resources can be accessed in the usual way, either by specifying a username and password or by using SSH keys. An SSH key consists of 2 files - a private key and a public key. The private key is stored on the **user's computer** and the public key is hosted on the **server**.

To create an SSH key in a Windows environment, you should do as follows:

  - Download and run the app [[http://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk|puttygen.exe]].
  - Select the desired SSH type, RSA (recommended) or DSA and click **Generate**. Move the mouse in the main window of the app during generation. {{ :generate_window.png |}}
  - Enter a comment for the key (e.g. your username) and a passphrase to protect the key.{{ :comment.png |}}
  - Save the public and private keys on your computer. Don't forget to copy the generated text **Public key for pasting into OpenSSH autorized_keys file** at the top of the page, because it is needed for pasting it into the //authorized_keys// files of the servers you want to connect to. {{ :ssh_public.png |}}

You can use the Putty agent for connection to the server. In the main **Session** window, enter the server's IP address and port (22 is standard), and in the application settings **Connection -> SSH -> Auth -> Crediantials**, specify your private key (.ppk) file. In the window that appears, set the username **root** and the SSH passphrase. {{ :putty_ssh.png?nolink&400 |}}