How To Set Up SSH Key Authentication in Linux for More Secure Logins

Here's how easy it is to add a layer of security to your secure shell logins on Linux.

Secure Shell (SSH) is the de facto standard for gaining access to remote Linux machines. SSH took the place of telnet long ago, to add a much-needed layer of security for remote logins.

That doesn't mean, however, that the default SSH configuration is the best option for those who are a bit more concerned about the security of their systems. Out of the box, SSH works with traditional user and password logins. And even though those logins are far more secure than they were with telnet, you're still typing and sending a password across the internet.