How to Generate SSH Keys on Windows 11

This guide explains how to generate SSH keys on Windows 11. An SSH key pair is a digital “key” used to log into remote servers securely or to manage code on platforms like GitHub.

Why use SSH keys?

SSH keys provide a more secure way to log in than using a standard password. They act as a unique digital signature that proves your identity to a server or service, keeping your data safer.

What happens when done?

Once you finish these steps, you will have two files saved on your computer: a private key (which you must keep secret) and a public key (which you share with servers or websites to grant access).

You can learn more about general SSH concepts here: How to create an SSH key for key authentication

How to create SSH keys

Windows 11 comes with built-in tools to handle this. You do not need to install extra software. We recommend using the Windows Terminal for the best experience.

Note: You do not need administrator privileges for these commands, as they are saved to your personal user profile folder.

1. Open the Windows Terminal or Command Prompt.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:
   
   ssh-keygen -t ed25519 -C "user@example.com"

The system will ask where to save the file. Press Enter to accept the default location (usually C:\Users\YourName\.ssh).

Next, the system will ask for a passphrase. If you want to use the key without typing a password every time, just press Enter twice to leave it empty. Otherwise, type a secure passphrase to add an extra layer of protection.

Your screen should look similar to this:

Generating public/private ed25519 key pair.
Enter file in which to save the key (C:\Users\username\.ssh\id_ed25519):
Created directory 'C:\Users\username\.ssh'.
Enter passphrase (empty for no passphrase):
Enter same passphrase again:
Your identification has been saved in C:\Users\username\.ssh\id_ed25519.
Your public key has been saved in C:\Users\username\.ssh\id_ed25519.pub.
The key fingerprint is:
SHA256:fXTi96BC8pHrLtqyBOrtKBeWvYSMigOKt9U898rd1Jo user@example.com
The key's randomart image is:
+--[ED25519 256]--+
|                 |
|                 |
|            o .  |
|         . + o   |
| o +.   S = o o  |
|o *.o+   + + + o |
|*..o..= . + o . .|
|B.o+...=.+ + o   |
| =+oo o+++= E    |
+----[SHA256]-----+

You can find your new keys in your user folder at: C:\Users\username\.ssh

Summary

Generating SSH keys on Windows 11 is a simple process using the built-in ssh-keygen tool. By using the Ed25519 algorithm, you ensure your connection remains secure. Always keep your private key file safe and never share it with anyone. Your public key is safe to upload to services like GitHub to allow secure access to your account.