ssh-keygen

Generate and manage SSH key pairs with the ssh-keygen command-line utility.

6|1|Updated Feb 16, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/L3DigitalNet/Claude-Code-Plugins --skill ssh-keygen
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: ssh-keygen
Source: https://github.com/L3DigitalNet/Claude-Code-Plugins/tree/main/plugins/linux-sysadmin/skills/ssh-keygen
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/L3DigitalNet/Claude-Code-Plugins --skill ssh-keygen

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill simplifies the complex and often error-prone process of managing SSH keys, ensuring secure and efficient access to systems.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Key Generation: Create secure Ed25519 or RSA key pairs.
  • Passphrase Management: Securely add, change, or remove passphrases.
  • Public Key Operations: Extract public keys and manage authorized_keys and known_hosts files.
  • Certificate Signing: Utilize OpenSSH certificates for enhanced security and fleet management.
  • Use Case: Securely generate a new Ed25519 keypair for a server, add its public key to the authorized_keys file on the remote host, and then configure your local SSH client to use the new key.

Quick Start

Generate a new Ed25519 SSH keypair with the comment "[email protected]" and save it to "~/.ssh/id_ed25519".

Frequently Asked Questions about ssh-keygen

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I generate a new Ed25519 SSH key pair with a comment?

To generate an Ed25519 SSH key pair, use the ssh-keygen command-line utility, specifying the key type and adding a comment like "[email protected]". The generated key pair is saved to your specified file path for secure server access.

How do I change or remove a passphrase on an existing SSH key?

You can manage SSH key passphrases using the ssh-keygen command-line utility to securely add, change, or remove them. This ensures your private key remains protected while allowing flexible passphrase handling.

How do I add my public SSH key to the authorized_keys file on a remote host?

Adding your public SSH key to the authorized_keys file on a remote host enables secure remote connections. You can extract the public key and manage its distribution to configure your local SSH client for access.

What is the best way to manage known_hosts files for secure SSH connections?

The best way to manage known_hosts files is using the ssh-keygen command-line utility. It allows you to manipulate known_hosts entries directly, ensuring secure remote connections and preventing unauthorized server access.

Can I use SSH certificates for fleet management and enhanced security?

Yes, you can utilize OpenSSH certificates for enhanced security and fleet management. This involves certificate signing with a Certificate Authority, managed through the ssh-keygen command-line utility for secure server access.

Ed25519 vs RSA: which SSH key type should I generate?

When generating SSH keys, you can choose between Ed25519 and RSA key types using the ssh-keygen command-line utility. Both are supported for secure server access, with Ed25519 preferred for modern cryptographic efficiency.