find_key_by_type_and_name - Linux


Overview

find_key_by_type_and_name is a command used to search for a specific key in a given OpenPGP secret keyring based on its type and name. It is particularly useful for finding specific private keys or public subkeys, which are essential for encryption and decryption operations.

Syntax

find_key_by_type_and_name [options] <fingerprint> <key_type> <key_name>

Options/Flags

  • -k: Specify the GPG key ring to search. By default, the user’s default key ring is used.
  • -q: Quiet mode. Suppresses all output except for the key fingerprint.

Examples

Find a private key by its fingerprint and name:

find_key_by_type_and_name 0xDEADBEEF Private MyPrivateKey

Find a public subkey by its key type and name:

find_key_by_type_and_name 0xDEADBEEF Public MyPublicKey

Common Issues

  • Key not found: Ensure that the provided fingerprint, key type, and key name are correct and that the key exists in the specified key ring.

Integration

find_key_by_type_and_name can be integrated with other commands to automate tasks or create complex workflows. For example:

key_fingerprint=$(find_key_by_type_and_name 0xDEADBEEF Private MyPrivateKey)
gpg --sign --key $key_fingerprint message.txt

Related Commands

  • gpg: Manage and use OpenPGP keys and perform cryptographic operations.
  • gpg-agent: Manage GPG keys and provide them to external applications.

Additional Resources