add_key - Linux

Overview

add_key is a command that adds or modifies SSH, PGP, or X.509 certificates to an existing keyring. It allows users to manage cryptographic keys and trust relationships for secure communication and authentication.

Syntax

add_key [options/flags] <key-id> <key-data>

Options/Flags

  • -k, –keyring: Specify the keyring to which the key should be added.
  • -t, –type: Specify the type of key to add (ssh, pgp, or x509). Defaults to "ssh".
  • -v, –verbose: Enable verbose output for additional information and progress messages.
  • -h, –help: Display usage instructions.

Examples

Adding an SSH key to the default keyring

add_key my_ssh_key ~/.ssh/id_rsa.pub

Adding a PGP key to a custom keyring

add_key --keyring my_pgp_keys --type pgp my_pgp_key my.key

Modifying an existing X.509 certificate

add_key --type x509 --keyring my_x509_certs my_certificate my.crt

Common Issues

  • Key already exists: If the specified key-id already exists in the keyring, an error will occur. Use a different key-id or re-add the key with the --replace option.
  • Incorrect key type: The key-id must match the specified key type. If the key is of a different type, an error will occur.
  • Key format not recognized: The key-data must be in a valid format for the specified key type. Check the key file or data for errors.

Integration

add_key can be integrated with other commands to manage and manipulate cryptographic keys:

  • ssh-add: Add keys to the SSH agent for use with SSH connections.
  • gpg: Manage and sign PGP keys.
  • ssh-keygen: Generate new SSH key pairs.

Related Commands

  • ssh-keygen
  • ssh-add
  • gpg