Log in with a key

A key pair lets you log in without typing a password. The private key stays on your Mac; the public key goes on the server.

Steps

  1. Select the host and choose Host ▸ Edit….
  2. Open Log in with and choose:
    • Keys in ~/.ssh and the ssh agent (default): ssh tries your usual keys. Fine for most people.
    • A key from the list: only that key is tried. Each one shows its name, type and comment.
    • Choose a Key File…: a key that is somewhere else. A PuTTY key (.ppk) is imported first.
    • Generate New Key…: makes a new key for this host. See Make a new key pair.
  3. Click Save, then connect.
The host sheet with a key chosen under Log in with

Put the public key on the server

The server must know your public key. If it doesn’t yet, use Window ▸ Keys ▸ Install on Host…: AirSCP logs in once with your password and adds the key. See Put your key on a server.

Tips

  • A key with a passphrase: AirSCP asks for it when connecting. Add to Agent in the Keys window can keep it in your Keychain, so you type it once.
  • A key file that no longer exists shows in red as “(missing)”, and the host gets a warning in the sidebar.
  • “Too many authentication failures”? Choose one key instead of the default, or add IdentitiesOnly=yes in Extra ssh settings.