[How To] Puttygen Puttssh for ssh

1. Run PuttyKeyGen

• Ensure SSH2DSA is selected at the bottom.
• Click on Generate.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to move the mouse.

2. Once the key is generated

• Add a proper comment for the key, including the username and hostname.
• Choose a strong password, incorporating numbers, special characters, and uppercase letters.
• Save the public and private key in C:\Documents and Settings\santanu.misra.

3. Add pageant.exe to your startup programs as a shortcut.

4. Modify the properties box:

• In the “Target” box, add the private-key file name.
• In the “Start in” box, put the directory where you stored the public key (refer to step 2.c).
• Set “Run” to minimized.

5. Right-click on pageant for key addition:

• Choose your private key file generated with PuttyKeyGen. Enter the password from step 2.b when prompted.
• View your key using the “View Key” option; delete the key if needed.

6. Configure Putty to work with public and private keys.

Note: I modified “ScrollbackLines” for Putty using regedit to increase scroll back lines (default is 200). The key is located at

MyComputer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\SimonTatham\PuttY\Sessions\Default Settings

For quick access to known servers, automate login via (ssh):

echo "ssh-add -L >> .ssh/authorized_keys"

Enhance your security with this comprehensive guide to setting up SSH keys using PuttyKeyGen. Learn the essential steps, from key generation to configuring Putty, ensuring a seamless and secure access experience.