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How to Connect to Linux VPS Using SSH Keys in Chrome OS Terminal

This article will guide you through the process of generating SSH keys in Chrome OS Terminal, importing them to the Cloudzy Portal, and establishing a secure connection to your Linux VPS. By embracing SSH keys, you can bolster your server's security, simplify remote access, and efficiently manage your VPS through the Chrome OS command-line interface. Let's embark on a journey into the world of SSH keys, harnessing their potential for secure and streamlined server management.

Install ChromeOS Terminal

To enable the Terminal on Chrome OS, begin by navigating to the ChromeOS settings. In the "Linux" section, turn on the Linux feature. This action will prompt a window with a series of installation prompts. Choose your preferred username and disk size, then click "Install" to initiate the process. Once the installation is complete, a Terminal window will open, ready for use.

When you launch the Terminal for the first time, you'll notice that the window opens immediately and displays the progress of starting up the Linux container. With the Terminal installed and operational, you can now proceed with generating SSH keys, importing them to the Cloudzy Portal, and establishing secure connections to your Linux VPS instances. Let's continue our journey towards secure and efficient server management using SSH keys in Chrome OS Terminal.

Understanding Terminal in Chrome OS

Chrome OS provides a powerful terminal application, allowing users to access a text-based command-line interface to the underlying Linux shell. Chrome OS Terminal empowers users to interact directly with the operating system, enabling a wide range of tasks and system operations.

To open the Chrome OS Terminal, Press Ctrl + Alt + T to launch the Terminal application.

With Chrome OS Terminal at your disposal, you gain the power to execute various commands efficiently, making it an indispensable tool for SSH key generation and VPS management.

Generating SSH Keys on Chrome OS

SSH keys comprise a pair of cryptographic keys—a private key (kept confidential) and a public key (used for authentication). Generating SSH keys on Chrome OS Terminal is a straightforward process:

Launch the Chrome OS Terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.
Execute the following command in the Terminal window:


ssh-keygen -t rsa

The key generation process will prompt you to specify the storage location for the keys. Accept the default location by pressing the ENTER key, and set a passphrase for enhanced security (not recommended to skip this step).

⚠️Warning! You will need to enter the passphrase twice to continue.

After confirming the passphrase, the system generates the key pair.


After confirming the passphrase, the system generates the key pair.
Your identification has been saved in /home/your_username/.ssh/id_rsa.
Your public key has been saved in /home/your_username/.ssh/id_rsa.pub.
The key fingerprint is:
ae:89:72:0b:85:da:ta:b4:8c:1f:c2:43:fd:c6:47:87 [email protected]
The key's random art image is:
+--[ RSA 2048]----+
|                 |
|         .       |
|        E .      |
|   .   . o       |
|  o . . S .      |
| + + o . +       |
|. + o = o +      |
| o...o * o       |
|.  oo.o .        |
+-----------------+

Your private key is saved to the id_rsa file in the .ssh directory, while the public key is stored in id_rsa.pub.

⚠️Important: Never share your private key with anyone!

Save the public key to your clipboard by running this command:


cat ~/.ssh/id_rsa.pub

The extensive key will manifest, replete with letters, numbers, and intermittent + symbols. The commencement of this prolonged key is indicated by: ssh-rsa. The [email protected] address will be at the tail end of the key, constituting a component of it.
From the ssh-rsa prefix onward, select and encompass the complete key using your cursor. Upon releasing the cursor, an ephemeral notification reading Copied will briefly materialize on the screen.

Importing Your SSH Key to the Cloudzy Portal

Now, import the copied SSH key to the Cloudzy Portal for secure server management:

After copying the SSH key to the clipboard, log in to your Cloudzy account page.
In the left sidebar, choose SSH Keys and click on NEW SSH KEY in the top right corner.
Name your key descriptively and paste the contents of the public key into the Public Key area.

With your SSH key successfully imported, you're well-prepared for streamlined VPS creation and heightened server security.

Connecting to Your VPS Server via Chrome OS Terminal

Now, let's delve into the process of establishing a secure connection to your VPS server using the Chrome OS Terminal, with a deeper look at the -i option for added security:

Launch the Chrome OS Terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T.
Compose the following command in the terminal, ensuring you replace username with your VPS server's username and your_server_ip with your VPS's IP address or domain name:


ssh username@your_server_ip

If this is your first connection, confirm the host authenticity and enter the passphrase you set for your SSH key during generation.

Introducing the -i Option: To enhance the security of your connection, you can utilize the -i option followed by the path to your private SSH key. This key-based authentication adds an extra layer of protection by ensuring that only those with the private key can access the server.


ssh -i /home/your_username/.ssh/id_rsa username@your_server_ip

By implementing the -i option and specifying the full path to your private SSH key, you're bolstering the security of your connection.

By harnessing the power of SSH keys and Chrome OS Terminal, you have unlocked a secure and efficient approach to connecting and managing your Linux VPS. Through the process of generating SSH keys, importing them to the Cloudzy Portal, and establishing connections via Terminal, you have fortified your server's security and simplified remote management. Embrace this newfound knowledge and enjoy the seamless and secure experience of managing your VPS with ease. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us by submitting a ticket.

FAQ

Can I use the same SSH key for multiple Linux servers?

Yes, you can use the same SSH key to connect to multiple Linux servers. Once you have imported your SSH key to the Cloudzy Portal, you can select it from the advanced options while creating new servers, simplifying server management.

Is setting a passphrase during SSH key generation necessary on Chrome OS?

While setting a passphrase is optional, it is highly recommended for added security. A passphrase acts as an extra layer of protection for your private key, preventing unauthorized access to your servers in case your key gets compromised.

Is Chrome OS Terminal suitable for managing my Linux VPS securely?

Absolutely! Chrome OS Terminal provides a secure and efficient command-line interface, allowing you to manage your Linux serverss directly. With SSH keys for authentication, you eliminate the risks associated with password-based access and ensure a robust security posture.

Can I use additional ssh command options in Chrome OS Terminal?

Yes, Chrome OS Terminal supports additional ssh command options, such as port forwarding or specifying your private key file location. These options provide flexibility and customization when connecting to your VPS securely.

How do SSH keys enhance the security of my VPS management on Chrome OS?

SSH keys offer a high level of security by using asymmetric encryption. They eliminate the risk of password-related vulnerabilities like brute-force attacks, ensuring only authorized users with private keys can access your servers.

Can I revoke or delete my SSH key from the Cloudzy Portal on Chrome OS?

Yes, you have the option to manage your SSH keys on the Cloudzy Portal. If needed, you can remove or delete SSH keys from your account. Be sure to delete keys that are no longer in use to maintain optimal security.