Understanding SSH Keys for Assignment 2

Sep 23, 2024

Lecture Notes: Beginning of Assignment 2

General Overview

  • Date: Wednesday, September 11th
  • Focus on Assignment 2, specifically on authentication and SSH keys.
  • Collaboration with Eric Johnson for VM setup.
  • Previous assignment went well; awaiting grading feedback.

Assignment 2: Key Points

  • Authentication
    • Importance of authentication for VM connection.
    • SSH keys and their use in secure connection.
    • CentOS requirement: Must have CentOS working to progress in the course.

Virtual Machines (VMs)

  • Configuration
    • VMs set up with help from Eric Johnson.
    • Multiple classes will engage with the same content regarding authentication.
  • Connection Setup
    • Need to connect using SSH keys.
    • Importance of thoroughly understanding SSH for future use.

SSH Keys: Understanding and Application

  • Importance of SSH
    • Default for cloud providers.
    • Protects from password theft.
    • Crucial skill similar to basic knowledge in professional fields.
  • Steps to Set Up SSH Keys
    • Step 1: Generate SSH keys on the target terminal (the server you want to connect to).
    • Command: ssh-keygen
    • Key Files: id_rsa (private) and id_rsa.pub (public).
    • Private Key: Keep this secure, ideally on Ocelot.
    • Public Key: Place this in the authorized_keys file on the target server.

Practical Example

  • Connection Process
    • SSH from Ocelot to target VM using the SSH key.
    • If the private key is stored correctly, you can connect without needing a password.
    • Important to handle keys correctly (permissions, location).

Troubleshooting

  • Permission Issues
    • Correct permissions with chmod 600 for private keys.
  • Connection Confirmation
    • Correct configurations should allow seamless connection without password prompts.

Future Activities

  • Assignment 2 Tasks
    • Focus on ensuring SSH key setups are correct.
    • Keys will be used for future VM assignments in the course.
    • Emphasis on the cloud-like environment simulation for assignments.

Miscellaneous

  • Engagement
    • Instructor encourages interaction and understanding over rote execution.
    • Encourages students to contact for support if there are connection issues.

Conclusion

  • Next Steps
    • Further videos on SSH keys and assignments will be provided.
    • Assignment 2 will have a two-week period post-launch.
    • Emphasis on understanding and executing SSH connections effectively.

This session was an introduction to the critical importance of SSH keys and a practical walkthrough of their setup and use in the context of a class assignment.