How to Convert SSH2 Public Key to PEM

In this article, we will explore the process of converting SSH2 public key to PEM format. We will provide a step-by-step guide on how to do this, as well as discuss the benefits of using PEM format and how it differs from other certificate types.

Understanding SSH2 Public Key

Secure Shell or SSH is a cryptographic network protocol that enables secure communication between two untrusted networked devices. SSH2 public key is a digital certificate that is used to prove the identity of the sender and authenticate the receiver. It is an essential component of SSH as it allows for secure communication over an unsecured network.

Benefits of Using SSH2 Public Key

SSH2 public key is highly secure and provides end-to-end encryption of data. It ensures that the data transmitted between the sender and receiver is protected from eavesdropping, tampering, and other forms of cyber threats. It also provides a reliable means of authentication, ensuring that only trusted users can access sensitive information.

PEM Format: An Overview

PEM or Privacy-enhanced Electronic Mail is a widely used file format for storing and transmitting digital certificates, including SSH2 public key. It is a base-64 encoded text file that consists of a header, a footer, and the certificate data. PEM format is highly portable and can be used across different platforms and applications.

PEM format is a widely used file format for storing and transmitting digital certificates, including SSH2 public key, and it offers advantages such as easy readability and modification, as well as portability and support from various software applications; to convert SSH2 public key to PEM format, one can use the OpenSSL command-line tool and follow a step-by-step guide to ensure a successful conversion.

Advantages of PEM Format

PEM format offers several advantages over other certificate types. It is easy to read and modify, making it ideal for debugging and troubleshooting. It is also widely supported by various software applications, including web servers, email clients, and VPNs. Additionally, PEM format can be converted to other certificate types, such as DER and PKCS#7, using OpenSSL commands.

Converting SSH2 Public Key to PEM

To convert SSH2 public key to PEM format, we will use the OpenSSL command-line tool. OpenSSL is a robust, open-source toolkit that provides a wide range of cryptographic functions, including certificate conversion.

Step-by-Step Guide

Open a terminal window and navigate to the directory where the SSH2 public key file is located.
Type the following command to convert the SSH2 public key to PEM format:

“`
openssl rsa -in ssh2_public_key -outform PEM -out ssh2_public_key.pem

This command will convert the SSH2 public key to PEM format and save it as ssh2_public_key.pem.

Verify that the conversion was successful by checking the contents of the PEM file. Type the following command:

cat ssh2_public_key.pem

This command will display the contents of the PEM file on the terminal window.

Tips and Tricks

To convert multiple SSH2 public keys to PEM format, you can use a loop in the terminal window.
You can also use the OpenSSL command to convert PEM format to other certificate types, such as DER and PKCS#7.

FAQs – Convert SSH2 Public Key to PEM

What is an SSH2 public key and a PEM file format?

SSH2 public key is a cryptographic key that is used to authenticate a user to an SSH server. It is a text file that contains a sequence of characters with a unique key that enables the user to access the server. PEM file format, on the other hand, is a format that is used to store cryptographic keys and certificates. It is the default format that is used by services like Apache and OpenSSL.

Why do I need to convert an SSH2 public key to a PEM file?

The reason to convert SSH2 public key to PEM file format is to enable its use with web server software like Apache and Nginx. These servers use PEM file format to store and validate SSL/TLS certificates and keys.

How can I convert an SSH2 public key to a PEM file?

There are several ways to convert SSH2 public key to PEM file format. The easiest way is to use an online converter tool that allows you to upload your SSH2 public key and convert it to PEM file format. Alternatively, you can use OpenSSL, a command-line tool that can convert between various cryptographic formats, to convert an SSH2 public key to PEM format.

How do I convert my SSH2 public key using OpenSSL?

To convert your SSH2 public key using OpenSSL, run the following command in your terminal:

ssh-keygen -e -m PEM -f id_rsa.pub > id_rsa.pub.pem

Here, id_rsa.pub represents the name of your SSH2 public key file. The command will generate a new file with the name id_rsa.pub.pem containing your SSH2 public key in PEM file format.

Are there any risks associated with converting an SSH2 public key to a PEM file?

Converting an SSH2 public key to a PEM file format does not involve any risks to your security. However, it is important to ensure that you keep your private key (id_rsa) safe and secure to avoid unauthorized access to your server.