> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.synteq.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.synteq.com/virtualization-platform/account-management/adding-ssh-keys.md).

# Adding SSH keys

## Why should you use SSH keys? <a href="#why-should-you-use-ssh-keys" id="why-should-you-use-ssh-keys"></a>

SSH keys provide cryptographic authentication that is significantly more secure than password-based logins. With key lengths of 2048 bits or more, SSH keys are virtually impossible to brute force, eliminating the risk of weak or compromised passwords.

Unlike passwords, SSH keys cannot be intercepted through network sniffing, keyloggers, or man-in-the-middle attacks. The cryptographic handshake process makes sure that even if traffic is monitored, attackers cannot replay or forge authentication attempts.

## How to add SSH keys to your Virt account? <a href="#how-to-add-ssh-keys-to-your-metal-account" id="how-to-add-ssh-keys-to-your-metal-account"></a>

### 1. Go into the SSH Keys tab on Virt <a href="#how-to-add-ssh-keys-to-your-metal-account" id="how-to-add-ssh-keys-to-your-metal-account"></a>

Start by logging into our [Virtualization Platform](https://virt.crunchbits.com/), and clicking on the `SSH Keys` button.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/tcPHBakjE3aaHSlRBcV4" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Then click on the `Add Key` button.&#x20;

<figure><img src="/files/VY5frwygEof0iuuj3kSH" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Afterward, enter the name of your SSH Key \[1], and then paste in your public key into the `Public Key` \[2] section.

<figure><img src="/files/ZKvCkZww9PsPDYn6Zpaq" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Then click on the `Save` button.

<figure><img src="/files/luy0cLYFb9eLhjvdMUIn" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

And just like that, you have successfully added an SSH key into your Virt account!

<figure><img src="/files/M7NRuAsRTT4qu66BaA0m" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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