Key pairs for SSH access in AWS - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a key pair in AWS used for?

A key pair in AWS is used to securely connect to virtual machines (EC2 instances) via SSH. It consists of a public key stored by AWS and a private key kept by the user.

beginner

What are the two parts of an SSH key pair?

The two parts are the public key, which AWS stores and uses to verify connections, and the private key, which you keep safe and use to prove your identity when connecting.

beginner

How do you use a key pair to connect to an EC2 instance?

You use an SSH client with the private key file to connect. The client proves your identity using the private key, and AWS verifies it with the stored public key.

beginner

Why should you never share your private key?

Sharing your private key risks unauthorized access to your servers. It is like a password that grants full access, so it must be kept secret and secure.

intermediate

What happens if you lose your private key for an EC2 instance?

If you lose your private key, you cannot connect to the instance via SSH. You must create a new key pair and update the instance or use other recovery methods.

What does AWS store when you create a key pair?

A Both public and private keys

B The public key

C The private key

D No keys, only a password

AWS stores only the public key. The private key is kept by the user.

Which file do you use to connect to an EC2 instance via SSH?

A Key pair metadata

B Public key file

C Private key file

D Instance configuration file

You use the private key file with your SSH client to connect securely.

What should you do if you suspect your private key is compromised?

A Create a new key pair and update the instance

B Delete the EC2 instance immediately

C Share it with your team

D Ignore it if you still can connect

Creating a new key pair and updating the instance helps secure access.

Can you download the private key again from AWS after creating a key pair?

A No, only at creation time

B Yes, anytime from the console

C Yes, but only after 24 hours

D Yes, if you request support

AWS allows downloading the private key only once when you create the key pair.

What is the main purpose of using SSH key pairs instead of passwords?

A To speed up connection time

B To avoid typing passwords

C To allow multiple users to share one password

D To provide stronger, more secure authentication

SSH key pairs provide stronger security than passwords by using cryptographic keys.

Explain how SSH key pairs work to secure access to AWS EC2 instances.

Think about the two keys and their roles in connection.

Describe the steps you would take if you lose your private key for an EC2 instance.

Focus on recovery and maintaining secure access.