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Secure Shell - Working with SSH Keys

In this lab, you'll configure and create SSH keys that enable passwordless SSH between 2 servers. Then you'll test the connection. The scenario for the lab is as follows: The IT manager at Eucalyptus and Lavender Inc. has asked you to install and configure a new SSH server on Server1. In addition, set up a key pair for the "cloud_user" user account to transfer files between Server1 and Server2 without prompting for a password. Good luck!

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Lab Info
Level
Intermediate
Last updated
Sep 20, 2025
Duration
30m

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Table of Contents
  1. Challenge

    Log In and Check the Status of SSH
    1. Log in to Server1 with SSH.
    2. Make sure the OpenSSH package is running.
  2. Challenge

    Configure OpenSSH for Passwordless Authentication
    1. Configure OpenSSH for Passwordless Authentication.
    2. Restart the sshd service.
  3. Challenge

    Create an RSA SSH Key Pair for the cloud_user Account
    1. Create an RSA key pair for the cloud_user.
    2. Secure the ~/.ssh directory permissions.
    3. Copy the public key to Server2.
  4. Challenge

    Test the Connection
    1. SSH to Server2 as the cloud_user to test the connection.
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