Linux - Generate a New SSH Key for GitLab

This tutorial will go through the steps needed to setup a new SSH private key for GitLab access. SSH allows for developers to connect to GitLab easily without authenticating every time you're committing to your GitLab repository.

Step 1 List All SSH Files

List All SSH Files

List all SSH files to double check and make sure not to overwrite any existing SSH keys.

Step 2 Go into Directory

Go into Directory

Point your command line terminal to the right folder so we can generate a new SSH private key for your GitHub account.

Step 3 Generate a SSH Private Key

Generate a SSH Private Key

Use an SSH generator to generate a key and attach it to your existing email address with the one on your GitHub account. (Make sure to replace [email protected] with your GitHub account's email)

Step 4 Go Through the Generator Sequence

Go Through the Generator Sequence

While going through the generator sequence you can leave the passphrase blank (if on your personal machine) or for more security fill in a passphrase on a work shared machine. For tutorial purposes choose the file name github_rsa. It'll be easier to follow along with other GitLab tutorials.

Step 5 Make Sure SSH Agent is On

Make Sure SSH Agent is On

Turn on the SSH agent in the background with the following command.

Step 6 Add your GitLab Private Key

Add your GitLab Private Key

Add your SSH private key to the ssh-agent that you just previously turned on in the last step.

Step 7 Copy Your Private Key Add to GitLab

Copy Your Private Key Add to GitLab

Add your private key to your GitLab account.