Create Root SSH Key

SSH keys provide a more secure way of logging into a server with SSH than using a password alone. While a password can eventually be cracked with a brute force attack, SSH keys are nearly impossible to decipher by brute force alone.

Generating a key pair provides you with two long string of characters: a public and a private key. You can place the public key on any server, and then unlock it by connecting to it with a client that already has the private key. When the two match up, the system unlocks without the need for a password.

You can increase security even more by adding a password when you generate the SSH key pair. A password is not required, but adds an additional level of security. Even if by some remote chance someone were to get your private key, they would need to know your password in order to use it.

Creating a Root SSH Key Pair

1) Login to WHM as root

2) Go to Security Center => Manage root's SSH Keys

3) Near the top of the page, click on "Generate a New Key"

4) On the next page, enter a descriptive key name and a secure password, then click the "Generate Key" button. You will be directed back to the main Manage SSH screen.

5) Click on Manage Authorization to the right of the key you just created.

6) On the next page, click "Authorize"

The SSH key can now downloaded and used to access root SSH on the server.